The Nigerian government has enacted a ban on single-use plastic products (SUPPs) across all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to combat escalating waste issues and address climate change concerns within the country.
Iziaq Adekunle Salako, Minister of State for Environment, announced the decision following a Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, emphasizing Nigeria’s severe plastic pollution problem.
Salako described the MDA ban as an initial step towards nationwide management of plastic waste, underscoring the government’s commitment to tackling climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.
Single-use plastics, derived mainly from fossil fuel-based petrochemicals, encompass items like food containers, bottles, straws, wrappers, cups, cutlery, and disposable bags designed for one-time use and disposal.
Earlier in March, the Lagos State Government also prohibited styrofoam and other single-use plastics due to their significant environmental impact.
Tokunbo Wahab, Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, expressed concerns about styrofoam frequently blocking drainage channels despite regular cleaning efforts.
