The Lagos State Government has announced plans to impose a ban on the circulation of single-use plastics and sachet water starting in January 2025.
The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, made the confirmation on Thursday during a stakeholders’ workshop focused on implementing the ban on Styrofoam and single-use plastics (SUPs) for packaging.
This policy is part of the state’s broader strategy to address plastic waste and promote a more sustainable environment.
Wahab emphasized that the ban is aimed at tackling the growing environmental challenge posed by plastic waste.
“Our goal is to create a healthier and more sustainable environment,” he said, underscoring the government’s commitment to addressing the adverse effects of plastic pollution.
However, stakeholders have raised concerns about the proposed timeline, urging the government to consider a phased approach to implementation.
They believe this would allow businesses to adjust more gradually to the new regulations, especially given the current economic climate.
Mosaku Ololade, Chairperson of the Lagos chapter of the Association for Table Water Producers of Nigeria (ATWAP), expressed the association’s readiness to cooperate with the government on the issue. “We’ve been engaging with the state government and educating our members on the planned ban,” Ololade stated.
With over 2,000 members in Lagos and more than 10,000 workers employed in the sector, Ololade called for a phased rollout to allow businesses to adapt.
“There are many measures that need to be in place before full enforcement,” she added, referencing the complexities involved in transitioning to sustainable alternatives. This new ban follows a similar restriction on Styrofoam that was introduced earlier this year across Lagos.
