The Lagos State Government has commenced enforcement of its ban on single-use plastics (SUPs) below 40 microns, warning that there will be no reversal of the policy.
Speaking at a news conference in Lagos yesterday, Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab emphasized that any market or store found storing or selling such plastics would be sealed, the items confiscated, and offenders prosecuted in accordance with the state’s environmental laws.
“There will be no going back from July 1 on the enforcement of the ban on single-use plastics less than 40 microns in Lagos State,” he said.
Wahab listed the items affected by the ban to include styrofoam packs, banned due to their harmful environmental impacts; plastic straws, prohibited to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainability; disposable plastic cups and cutlery; as well as lightweight nylon bags, banned to minimise environmental pollution.
He explained that the ministry had embarked on extensive awareness campaigns prior to the enforcement.
“When we announced the ban on styrofoam food containers in January 2024, we also informed everyone that, starting from January 2025, certain categories of SUPs would be banned,” he said.
The commissioner noted that following a series of meetings and representations with stakeholders, the state government granted a six-month grace period, which expired on June 30.
Wahab emphasised that the ban was primarily to safeguard the health and well-being of residents and to protect the environment.
“Many believed that the state government would succumb to pressure and blackmail laced with half-truths to consider another shift in date. This will not happen. We do not intend to join issues with any group or association selfishly interested in profiteering,” he stated.
He assured that no jobs would be lost during the transition, adding that more employment opportunities would be created when producers and distributors embrace safer alternatives that ensure environmental sustainability.
According to him, despite an 18-month moratorium, producers who failed to embrace alternatives had shown no intention of complying with the law.
“Lagos State has not banned the production of all categories of plastics. However, producers and distributors of the banned items have the option of selling them outside our state.
“As a coastal state, Lagos realises the enormous dangers that styrofoam packs and SUPs of less than 40 microns pose to our drainage channels and ecosystem. These blockages compel the government to channel funds meant for other social services towards clearing debris from drains,” he said.
Wahab added that enforcement of the ban would significantly reduce the volume of waste generated in the state and at its various landfill sites.
Meanwhile, Sustainable Research and Action for Environmental Development (SRADev Nigeria) has commended the Lagos State Government for what it described as a monumental stride in environmental protection.
In a statement on its Facebook page yesterday, the group described the policy as a critical win in Nigeria’s fight against plastic pollution and a major leap towards achieving a circular economy while protecting public health.
“This bold policy move is a critical win in Nigeria’s fight against plastic pollution and a major leap towards achieving a circular economy and protecting public health and the environment. At SRADev Nigeria, we celebrate this milestone and call on other states to follow suit. Together, we can beat plastic pollution and build a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable Nigeria,” it stated.
