The Lagos State Government has begun enforcing the ban on single-use plastics following a six-month notice issued to stakeholders.
Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, announced at a press conference in Alausa, Ikeja, that companies failing to comply with the ban would face prosecution and risk being sealed off.
Wahab stressed that the state government would not bow to pressure or blackmail to extend the enforcement date.
He highlighted that the ban is a critical step toward reducing the volume of waste generated across the state and its landfill sites.
He said, “There will be no going back from July 1, 2025, on the enforcement of the ban of single-use plastics (less than 40 microns) in Lagos state.
“When we took the bold decision to ban styrofoam food containers and single-use plastics of less than 40 microns, the decision was because of the safety and well-being of our residents which we will not compromise.
“We do not intend to join issues with any group or association who are only selfishly interested in profiteering. It is a no-brainer that no jobs will be lost during this transition more jobs will be created when the producers and distributors decide to embrace the safe options which will also ensure a sustainable environment.”
He added, “Lagos state has not banned the production of all the categories of plastics and let me mention here that the producers and distributors of the banned items in the state have the option of selling them outside our state.
“For the avoidance of doubt, here are items affected by the ban and the reasons for the ban:
– styrofoam packs: banned due to their harmful environmental impacts;
– plastic straws: prohibited to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainability;
– disposable plastic cups and cutleries: banned to minimise plastic pollution in the environment; and
– lightweight nylon bags: banned due to their nonreusable and nonbiodegradable quality.”