Lagos acts on Full-Scale Implementation of Single-Use Plastics Ban
Lagos acts on Full-Scale Implementation of Single-Use Plastics Ban
The Lagos State Government took a significant step towards enforcing the ban on single-use plastics on Thursday, hosting members of the Food and Beverables Recisers Alliance to discuss the details of the enforcement plan. The meeting emphasized that full enforcement of the ban is imminent.
Speaking at the meeting held in the conference room of the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, the commissioner, Tokunbo Wahab, reiterated the government’s commitment to the SUP ban, describing it as strategic and intentional.
According to him, the discussions also covered extended producer responsibilities and ongoing efforts by FBRA to collaborate with the government. This is detailed in a Thursday statement signed by the Director (Public Affairs), Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Kunle Adeshina.“We commended them for their efforts, and we agreed on some other things to solidify the relationship,” Wahab said.
He recalled that in January 2024, the Lagos State Government began enforcing the ban on styrofoam, with the commitment to extend the ban to single-use plastics after 12 months. He stated that stakeholder engagement will be a monthly affair, accompanied by massive advocacy and public sensitisation before full enforcement.
“We are now in February, and we are involving critical stakeholders. What we have agreed is to continue with serious engagement and advocacy with the association before the commencement of full enforcement. “We all understand that enforcing this ban will affect FBRA members one way or the other—as business owners, manufacturers, and suppliers. “So, part of this gathering was about the enforcement, and I believe before the end of this month, there will be another engagement to finalise the modalities for full enforcement,” he said.
He noted that unlike styrofoam, SUPs are more complex, and the government is committed to implementing the ban correctly and sustainably. However, he expressed satisfaction that FBRA members fully support the ban, recognizing its necessity “So, that means there is unity of purpose in implementing the ban. Both sides will continue discussions beyond enforcement—taking into account extended producer responsibilities, funding mechanisms, and operational frameworks.
