Lagos Enforces Ban on Single-Use Plastics, Threatens Closure of Defaulters
Six-Month Grace Period Ends, Offenders Face Sealing, Confiscation, and Fines
The Lagos State Government has officially begun enforcing its ban on single-use plastics (SUPs) less than 40 microns in thickness, with immediate penalties for violators including market closures, goods confiscation, and legal sanctions.
Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, made the announcement during a press briefing in Alausa, Ikeja, on Monday, July 1, 2025, declaring the end of a six-month grace period extended to stakeholders for compliance.
“There will be no reversal of this enforcement. The ban is now fully in effect,” Wahab stated.
What Items Are Banned?
The items covered under the ban include:
Styrofoam food packs
Plastic straws
Disposable plastic cups and cutlery
Lightweight nylon bags (less than 40 microns)
Wahab noted that producers and distributors can still operate outside Lagos State, but sales, storage, and distribution within the state will attract strict sanctions.
Tackling Plastic Waste: A Public Health Emergency
Lagos generates approximately 34 kilograms of plastic waste per person annually, according to a United Nations report cited by the Commissioner. Much of this ends up clogging waterways, damaging marine ecosystems, and worsening flood risks in the coastal city.
“That’s like every Lagosian dumping 10 plastic bottles into the water every day. We cannot afford to continue this way,” Wahab warned.
The policy, first announced in January 2024, is designed to curb environmental degradation and encourage the transition to eco-friendly packaging alternatives.
Stakeholder Consultations and Economic Impact
The decision followed extensive consultations with major industry players including:
Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN)
Recycling and Food Packaging Associations (REFSPAN)
Food and Beverage Recycling Alliance (FBRA)
Wahab dismissed fears of mass job losses, asserting that the ban would instead open up new opportunities in sustainable production and green innovation.
“This is a call to innovate, not an attack on businesses. We are protecting public health and the environment.”
Enforcement to Be Aggressive and Unyielding
Wahab made it clear that any store, supermarket, or market stall found with banned items would face immediate sanctions:
Sealing of premises
Confiscation of goods
Legal penalties under Lagos State environmental laws
“Enough is enough. This is a battle for our future and for the planet. We won’t compromise the safety and well-being of Lagosians.”
