Municipal solid waste (MSW) generation in Nigeria has increased significantly due to rapid urbanisation, population growth, and changing consumption patterns, creating serious environmental and waste management challenges. Refuse-derived fuel (RDF), which is produced from the combustible fraction of MSW, has emerged as a sustainable alternative fuel for industrial applications, particularly in cement manufacturing, steel production, and electricity generation. This review examines RDF production processes, industrial utilisation, and environmental implications, with an emphasis on the Nigerian context. It discusses the generation, composition, and management of MSW, highlighting how waste characteristics influence RDF quality and performance. The review further evaluates the current status of RDF utilisation in Nigeria, identifies key technical, economic, and policy barriers limiting its adoption, and explores opportunities for wider implementation. The findings indicate that Nigeria possesses substantial potential for RDF development owing to its abundant MSW resources and growing industrial energy demand. Strengthening waste segregation, supportive policies, and investment in processing infrastructure will be critical to advancing RDF utilisation and promoting a circular economy.
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Songonuga et al. (2026) studied this question.
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