Lagos State to Enforce Single-Use Plastic Ban in 14 Days

The Lagos State government announced yesterday that enforcement of the ban on single-use plastics (SUPs) will begin in 14 days. 

Tokunbo Wahab, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, revealed this during an inspection of flood-prone areas and various projects on Lagos Island and its surroundings, including the Ilubirin Waterfront.

In December 2024, Wahab stated that the usage of Styrofoam and other SUPs for packaging would be prohibited starting January 2025.

This follows the state government’s earlier ban in January 2024 on Styrofoam due to the escalating issues of plastic waste and its adverse environmental impact.

While speaking at the Ilubirin Pump Station, Wahab emphasised the government’s commitment to the ban, noting a noticeable reduction in styrofoam littering since the initial enforcement began. He expressed that there would be no reversal in the decision to phase out SUPs completely.

“The enforcement will start before the end of January,” Wahab affirmed.

Regarding the pump station, he commented on the necessity of the tour, and the need to check on the contractors’ readiness and discuss potentially shortening the contract period. 

This comes as part of the government’s efforts to regenerate the infrastructure of Lagos Island, which has been hindered by poor maintenance and human activities that have clogged the drainage systems.