The Lagos State Government has begun enforcing its ban on single-use plastics, following the expiration of a six-month grace period granted to stakeholders.
Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, made the announcement during a press conference at Alausa, Ikeja, warning that companies that fail to comply will face prosecution and risk being sealed off.
Wahab made it clear that the government will not yield to pressure or lobbying efforts to delay the ban, stating that enforcement would begin in full on July 1, 2025. He emphasised that the move is essential to reducing the volume of waste generated in Lagos and easing the pressure on landfill sites across the state.
“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,” Wahab declared. “When we took the bold decision to ban styrofoam food containers and plastics of less than 40 microns, it was done in the interest of the health and well-being of our residents, which we will not compromise.”
He dismissed criticisms from interest groups, accusing them of prioritising profit over environmental sustainability. He also assured the public that no jobs would be lost in the transition, asserting that the shift to environmentally friendly alternatives would, in fact, create more employment opportunities.
“The state has not banned the production of all categories of plastics,” Wahab clarified. “Manufacturers and distributors of banned items still have the option of selling their products outside Lagos.”
Items affected by the ban include styrofoam food containers, plastic straws, disposable plastic cups and cutlery, as well as lightweight nylon bags. According to the commissioner, these products were targeted due to their environmental hazards, non-biodegradability, and contribution to plastic pollution across the city.
The ban is part of a broader effort by the Lagos State Government to create a cleaner, more sustainable environment and shift the economy toward greener, safer alternatives.
