The Lagos State Government has intensified efforts to enforce a ban on single-use plastics (SUPs) across markets and communities, with officials actively policing areas like Oniwaya Market in Agege.
The initiative, led by Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources Tokunbo Wahab, aims to tackle environmental hazards caused by SUPs, such as blocked drainage and increased flooding risks.
Wahab announced on X that enforcement is in full swing following extensive public awareness campaigns to help traders and residents transition to reusable alternatives.
“Single-use plastics block our drainage, worsen flooding, and endanger our environment,” he stated, emphasizing the state’s commitment to total compliance.
The ban, effective as of July 1, 2025, targets items like styrofoam packs, plastic straws, disposable cups, and lightweight nylon bags, which are non-biodegradable and contribute to pollution.
The government has engaged stakeholders, including market unions and manufacturers, for over 18 months to ensure a smooth shift to sustainable options.
Wahab urged residents to adopt reusable alternatives, saying, “Together, we can build a safer, healthier, and more sustainable Lagos.”
Enforcement teams are now patrolling markets and communities, with strict penalties promised for violators under Lagos State’s environmental laws.
This move aligns with global efforts to reduce plastic pollution, with Lagos joining over 70 countries that have implemented similar bans. The policy is expected to reduce drainage blockages, mitigate flooding, and promote a cleaner ecosystem in the state.
