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The Lagos State Government has commenced the full enforcement of its ban on specific single-use plastics (SUPs) below 40 microns in thickness, starting Tuesday, July 1, 2025.
Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, made the announcement during a press briefing, affirming that the state will not reverse or extend the policy.
“There will be no going back on the July 1 enforcement date,” Wahab declared, adding that the government had previously made its stance clear during the January 2024 ban on styrofoam containers.
He explained that the ban does not apply to all plastic products, as items like PET bottles and pure water sachets are exempt. However, Wahab criticised producers who have failed to transition to alternatives despite being given an 18-month moratorium and an additional six-month grace period that expired on June 30. “If, after all this time, they’ve refused to comply, it simply shows a lack of commitment,” he said.
Before enforcement, the state engaged with major stakeholders, including the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), the Restaurants and Food Services Proprietors Association of Nigeria (RFSPAN), and the Food and Beverage Recycling Alliance (FBRA).
Wahab emphasized that the policy is rooted in concerns for public health and environmental protection. “This is about the safety and well-being of residents, which the government will never compromise,” he said. He pointed out that single-use plastics and styrofoam products often block drainage systems, forcing the government to divert funds meant for other services into clearing waste.
He noted that Lagos is aligning with international environmental practices. “Since Bangladesh’s ban in 2002, over 70 countries have introduced similar policies, while 33 others impose plastic bag charges,” he said.
The affected items include: Styrofoam packs – banned for their environmental hazards
Plastic straws – targeted to reduce unnecessary waste
Disposable cups and cutlery – to curb plastic pollution
Lightweight nylon bags – due to their non-reusable and non-biodegradable nature
Wahab clarified that while production of these items is not illegal, their sale or distribution within Lagos is prohibited. “They may be sold outside the state, but not here,” he added.
Dismissing profit-driven objections, he stated, “We won’t engage any group purely motivated by profiteering.” He also reassured citizens that job losses are unlikely. “More jobs will be created as producers embrace eco-friendly alternatives,” he said.
Violators will face strict penalties. Offending shops and markets will be sealed, products confiscated, and culprits prosecuted. Wahab concluded by saying that detailed enforcement strategies have been developed but will not be publicly disclosed at this time.