Lagos Tightens Grip On Ban On Single-Use Plastics; Set To Commence Enforcement Date For July 1

According to the Lagos State Government, the ban on single-use plastics will go into full effect on July 1.

According to the government, there has been enough time to conform to international best practices.

Tokunbo Wahab, the Environment Commissioner, revealed this in a statement posted on X on Monday.

He clarified that over the 18 months of communication, engagement, and transition, the state administration had been purposeful and planned.

Wahab pointed out that the government conducted a number of stakeholder meetings with marketers and manufacturers of these items in a span of over 18 months.

Residents, particularly those who engage in the product’s sale, reacted negatively to the state government’s January 2024 decision to outlaw the use of Styrofoam throughout the state.

However, the commissioner noted that what is inappropriate in other places cannot become the norm in Lagos and that the government had provided enough time to conform to international best practices.

“We re-emphasised this stand during a courtesy visit by management of TETRA PAK West Africa Limited, led by the Managing Director, Haithem Debbiche.

“This is about environmental responsibility. And we have given ample time to align with global best practices. What is unacceptable elsewhere cannot become standard in Lagos. We must protect our future and do what is right for the greater good.

“We’re not here to score points. We’re here to do the work. Just like with the successful enforcement of the styrofoam ban, we will insist on accountability and responsibility. A cleaner, healthier Lagos is within reach if we all play our part.”

In September 2024, the Lagos Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC), popularly known as KAI, destroyed ₦5 million worth of Styrofoam packs seized in one month across various locations in the state.

The exercise was carried out in the Epe area of the state by the agency in conjunction with Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) officials.

Speaking at the venue of the incineration, the Corps Marshal of the LAGESC, Major Olaniyi Olatunbosun Cole (rtd), said the state government has declared zero tolerance on the sales, usage, and distribution of Styrofoam packs in the state, and there was no going back on that.