By John Umeh
In a bold step toward environmental sustainability, the Lagos State Government has officially begun full enforcement of its ban on single-use plastics across the state. The move, which authorities describe as non-negotiable and long overdue, marks a turning point in the state’s battle against plastic pollution.
Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, announced the enforcement in a statement on Monday, stressing that there would be “no going back” on the policy. He emphasized that the indiscriminate use of disposable plastics—especially water sachets, plastic bags, straws, and food packaging—has contributed significantly to the clogging of drainages, flooding, and environmental degradation in Lagos.
“This ban is a necessary and urgent measure to save our environment from collapse. The health and future of our people depend on the actions we take today,” Wahab said.
The enforcement targets manufacturers, retailers, and individuals alike. Markets, eateries, street vendors, and event centers are now under strict surveillance, with task forces deployed to ensure compliance. Defaulters risk facing stiff penalties, including fines, business closures, and possible prosecution under state environmental laws.
Already, enforcement teams from the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), and Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) have begun raids across various parts of the state. Several shops and informal vendors have been issued warnings, and confiscations of banned plastic materials are underway.
The state government has also begun public sensitization campaigns, urging residents to embrace alternatives such as reusable bags, biodegradable containers, and refillable water bottles. Officials argue that these environmentally friendly options are not only safer but will also reduce long-term waste management costs.
While the decision has drawn applause from environmentalists and sustainability advocates, some business owners and market associations have expressed concern over the lack of affordable alternatives and the short window for transition. In response, the government says it is working with manufacturers to scale up the production and availability of eco-friendly packaging materials.
This ban aligns Lagos with global efforts to reduce plastic waste and tackle climate change. As one of Africa’s largest and most densely populated cities, Lagos generates over 13,000 metric tons of waste daily, a significant portion of which is non-biodegradable plastic. Officials say the ban is a critical step in cleaning up the city and protecting marine life along the coastline.
As enforcement continues, the Lagos State Government is urging all residents to support the initiative, stating that environmental protection is a shared responsibility.
“We cannot continue to live like we have another planet. The future of Lagos depends on what we do now,” Wahab concluded.
With this new policy in motion, Lagos joins a growing list of cities and countries around the world taking concrete action against the environmental menace of single-use plastics.
