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, emphasised 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.
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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.