The Nigerian Government has implemented a ban on single-use plastic products (SUPPs) across all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) as part of its efforts to combat the increasing waste crisis and address climate change threats within the country.
Minister of State for Environment, Iziaq Adekunle Salako, disclosed this decision following a Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, where he highlighted the severe issue of plastic pollution in Nigeria.
Salako described the MDA ban as an initial step towards managing plastic waste nationwide.
“This initiative demonstrates our commitment to addressing the triple threat of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution,” he stated.
Single-use plastic products, derived primarily from fossil fuel-based petrochemicals, include 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 had also imposed a ban on styrofoam and other single-use plastics due to their detrimental environmental impact.
Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, raised concerns about the frequent blockage of drainage channels by styrofoam, despite regular cleaning efforts.