THE EFFECTIVENESS OF ‘BABAN BOLA’ PROGRAMME IN PROMOTING ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY AMONG MAIDUGURI RESIDENTS

Abstract This study assessed the effectiveness of the Baban Bola programme in promoting environmental sustainability among residents of Maiduguri metropolis, Borno State, Nigeria. The programme, which involves informal waste collectors who recover recyclable materials from households, streets, and dumpsites, has become a major feature of urban waste management in the city. The study examined residents’ awareness and interaction with Baban Bola, the programme’s contribution to waste reduction and environmental cleanliness, its influence on household waste habits, and public support for its formal recognition. A descriptive survey research design was adopted using a quantitative approach. The population comprised adult residents of Maiduguri metropolis. A sample size of 400 respondents was determined using Taro Yamane’s formula, out of which 364 valid responses were retrieved, representing a 91 percent response rate. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered through Google Forms. The instrument was validated through expert review and pilot testing, while reliability was established using Cronbach’s Alpha. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages with the aid of SPSS. Findings revealed a high level of awareness (88.2%) of the Baban Bola programme and strong interaction with the collectors (75.8%). Plastics (81.9%) and metals (66.7%) were identified as the most commonly collected materials. A majority of respondents (79.9%) agreed that Baban Bola significantly or moderately improved street cleanliness, while 61.3 percent reported improvements in their waste sorting and reduction habits due to their activities. Furthermore, 66.2 percent supported the formal recognition of the programme. Despite these contributions, Baban Bola operators face challenges such as health risks, low income, social stigma, and lack of institutional support. The study concludes that the Baban Bola programme plays a significant but underutilized role In promoting environmental sustainability in Maiduguri. It recommends formal recognition, provision of protective equipment, establishment of recycling centres, and sustained public sensitization to strengthen sustainable waste management in the metropolis.