The Lagos State Government has announced the immediate enforcement of its ban on certain categories of single-use plastics (SUPs) across the state.
Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, confirmed at a press conference on Tuesday that there would be no turning back from the July 1, enforcement date previously set.
Wahab clarified that the ban specifically targets single-use plastics less than 40 microns, alongside styrofoam food containers.
He reiterated that pure water sachets and PET bottles are not included in the current prohibition, a distinction made clear when the styrofoam ban was initially announced in January 2024.
The Commissioner stressed that after an initial 18-month moratorium, and a further six-month grace period extended in January 2025 following discussions with stakeholders like the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Restaurants and Food Services Proprietors Association of Nigeria (RFSPAN), and Food and Beverage Recycling Alliance (FBRA), producers have had ample time to adopt alternatives.
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He suggested that failure to do so indicates an unwillingness to comply.
Wahab explained that the state’s bold decision to ban these plastics stems from a primary concern for the safety and well-being of Lagos residents, a priority the government will not compromise.
As a coastal state, Lagos faces significant dangers from styrofoam and SUPs less than 40 microns, which frequently clog drainage channels and harm the ecosystem.
This forces the government to divert funds that could otherwise be used for other social services to clear debris from drains.
He cited examples of similar bans globally, noting that Bangladesh first implemented such a measure in 2002.
By August 1, 2019, over 70 countries had introduced varying degrees of plastic bans, with 33 others imposing a per-bag charge.
Wahab detailed the specific items affected and the rationale behind their prohibition, styrofoam packs, banned due to their detrimental environmental impacts.
Plastic straws, prohibited to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainability, disposable plastic cups and cutlery, banned to minimise plastic pollution, lightweight nylon bags, banned due to their non-reusable and non-biodegradable nature.
The Commissioner clarified that the government has not banned the production of all plastic categories.Producers and distributors of the banned items in Lagos still have the option to sell them outside the state.
He affirmed that the state government embraces best practices and is joining numerous other countries and states in banning these types of plastics for the collective good of its citizens.Wahab asserted that the state does not intend to engage in disputes with groups primarily interested in profiteering.
He assured that no jobs would be lost during this transition, predicting that the adoption of safe alternatives by producers would, in fact, create more employment opportunities and foster a sustainable environment.
He issued a stern warning: any market or store found storing, selling, or distributing banned single-use plastics (less than 40 microns) will be sealed, their products confiscated, and offenders will face penalties under Lagos State’s environmental laws.
Wahab noted that various undisclosed enforcement strategies have been put in place to ensure compliance.
