Manufacturers Reject Lagos’ Single-Use Plastics Ban, Call July 1 Deadline ‘Unrealistic’
With just days remaining before Lagos State begins enforcement of its ban on single-use plastics (SUPs), manufacturers, market dealers, and waste workers are raising strong objections, describing the July 1 implementation deadline as hasty and economically dangerous.
The Lagos State Government, through its Ministry of the Environment, had earlier announced that full enforcement of the ban on items such as styrofoam food packs, disposable cutlery, straws, and lightweight plastic bags (under 40 microns) would commence on July 1, 2025. But those who rely on these materials for their livelihoods say the government’s timeline is unrealistic, warning of widespread job losses and economic dislocation.
Speaking at a stakeholder forum, Friday Oku, spokesperson for the Association of Scrap and Waste Pickers of Lagos (ASWOL), criticized the state’s approach as “insensitive and poorly planned.”
“This is not just about plastics. It’s about people’s lives,” Oku said. “We need at least three years to phase out these materials responsibly. A sudden ban means hunger and hardship for thousands.”
Manufacturers and market dealers echoed similar sentiments, expressing concern over sunk investments and the lack of viable, affordable alternatives.
Anthony Ugbe, a plastic manufacturer based in Ayobo, said his company had invested heavily in production equipment designed for SUPs and would likely collapse if forced to shut down overnight.
“We are not against protecting the environment,” Ugbe noted, “but the government must work with us, not against us. There was no proper sensitization, and we’ve had no support to transition to alternatives.”
Traders like Mrs. Precious Ibeh, who sells food in disposable containers at Ojota market, recalled major losses suffered during Lagos’ 2023 ban on styrofoam. “People think we’ll just switch to paper packs, but those are expensive and not water-resistant. Our customers can’t afford it,” she said.
Defending the July 1 start date, Commissioner for the Environment Tokunbo Wahab emphasized that the government had given stakeholders ample time. According to Wahab, the ban was first announced with a 12-month compliance window, later extended by another six months, making for an 18-month total transition period.
“We are dealing with a climate and pollution crisis,” Wahab stated. “Lagos produces thousands of tonnes of plastic waste daily. We can’t delay action forever.”
Wahab added that enforcement would be carried out by the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) officers.
Offenders risk fines up to ₦250,000 or three months imprisonment, depending on the severity of the violation.
While environmental groups largely support the ban, some have called for better planning and stronger engagement with stakeholders. Groups like Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF) and Let’s Do It Nigeria emphasized the need for gradual, inclusive implementation backed by public education, recycling infrastructure, and support for small businesses.
Others, including policy analysts, argue that taxation or levies on single-use plastics—rather than outright bans—might achieve better long-term compliance. “Countries like Ireland and the UK reduced SUP use through levies, not total bans. It gives room for behavior change,” one analyst said.
The looming enforcement date has created anxiety across Lagos markets and production hubs. While the government insists it is ready to proceed, traders, informal workers, and manufacturers continue to appeal for a phased rollout and economic support.
As the countdown to July 1 continues, the fate of thousands of jobs—and the success of Lagos’ environmental push—hangs in the balance.
