In a decisive move to tackle the rising plastic waste crisis, the Lagos State Government has set a firm date for enforcing the ban on Single-Use Plastics (SUPs), effective in 14 days.
The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, made this announcement during a tour of flood-prone areas and ongoing projects across Lagos Island.
The state government had initially banned the use of Styrofoam in January 2024, following growing concerns over environmental pollution.
Wahab confirmed that the upcoming enforcement would be a significant step in the government’s strategy to phase out harmful packaging materials.
“There is no going back on the total ban of single-use plastics,” Wahab stated during a briefing at the Ilubirin Pump Station.
“Lagos has seen a reduction in littering, particularly Styrofoam waste, and we are determined to maintain this momentum.”
Wahab emphasized the government’s commitment to infrastructure maintenance.
Speaking on the regeneration of Lagos Island’s drainage system, he noted that human activities, particularly indiscriminate dumping of waste, had compromised existing structures built by contractors like Julius Berger.
“The governor has re-awarded contracts to regenerate Lagos Island’s infrastructure,” Wahab revealed. “Our goal is to ensure that contractors are ready to commence work and, where possible, shorten project timelines.”
As the state braces for the full enforcement of the SUP ban, residents are urged to adapt to sustainable packaging alternatives.
The government has also reiterated its commitment to public awareness campaigns and partnerships with relevant stakeholders to ease the transition, Vanguard reports.
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