An environmental specialist has cautioned against the increasing trend of burning used vehicle tyres by young people in northern Nigeria, warning that the practice poses severe health and environmental hazards.
The concern follows findings from a survey carried out by African Climate Reporters, which showed that some youths have turned the activity into a source of income, especially around informal waste dumps where discarded tyres are commonly found.
A tyre, which is a key vehicle component made of rubber or synthetic material and fitted around a wheel, is designed to provide grip and cushioning between the vehicle and the road surface.
The Head of Communication and Strategies at African Climate Reporters, Mr Ibrahima Yakubu, explained that the survey revealed that many young people burn used tyres to extract embedded steel wires, which are later sold in local markets. He added that in some cases, the recovered materials are also purchased for domestic uses, including cooking.
Yakubu, who also lectures in Science and Environmental Studies at the African Institute of Waste Management and Environmental Studies, attributed the growing practice largely to poverty and limited economic opportunities in affected communities.
He warned that burning tyres releases toxic pollutants that endanger both those directly involved and nearby residents, noting that the smoke contains fine particulate matter capable of penetrating deep into the lungs and entering the bloodstream.
According to him, vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, nursing mothers, the elderly, asthma patients and individuals with weakened immunity are at greater risk of health complications.
He said exposure to such pollutants has been linked to respiratory diseases, worsening asthma conditions and increased risk of cardiovascular problems.
Yakubu further explained that tyres are not meant to be burned, as they contain hazardous substances including chemicals derived from benzene, styrene and 1,3-butadiene, some of which are suspected to have carcinogenic properties.
He added that prolonged exposure to toxins in the smoke could accumulate in the body over time and lead to chronic respiratory illnesses, while also contaminating soil, air and water resources.
The expert therefore called on government agencies, environmental regulators, civil society organisations and community leaders to intensify awareness campaigns on the dangers of tyre burning.
He also urged parents and guardians to monitor their children’s activities and discourage them from engaging in practices that endanger their health and the environment, stressing the need for sustainable waste management systems and alternative livelihood opportunities.
Some of the youths interviewed during the survey said the practice serves as a means of survival and daily income generation.
One respondent, who requested anonymity, admitted he was previously unaware of the health risks but said he would discontinue the activity after learning about its dangers.