Lagos State Government will initiate the full enforcement of the ban on Styrofoam food containers across the state starting Monday, February 19.

The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, made this announcement during a meeting with market leaders at the BlueRoof in Alausa, Ikeja.

Wahab emphasized the health and environmental damage caused by Styrofoam usage, stating that enforcement officers from LAGESC/KAI, Environmental Health Officials, LAWMA Police, and the Ministry would confiscate Styrofoam containers from shops, stores, and outlets.

“I would like to appeal to all our traders to desist from selling on the railway lines and all the roads. Also, we must stop littering our market with waste. We must segregate our wastes in our respective markets; bag our wastes and ensure we patronize PSP operators,” Wahab urged.

The commissioner underscored the government’s determination to promote viable alternatives to Styrofoam containers, citing their detrimental impact on residents’ health and the environment over the years.

Wahab also addressed the recent closure of some markets due to unsanitary conditions, emphasizing the government’s commitment to cleanliness and the enforcement of environmental laws.

He urged market leaders to prioritize a clean environment and discourage selling on roads.

He noted concerns about attacks on government officials during market visits to assess sanitary conditions and enforce environmental laws.

Wahab appealed for cooperation from traders and market leaders to ensure a cleaner and healthier environment.

In response to the upcoming enforcement, the Iyaloja General, Mrs. Folasade Tinubu-Ojo, represented by Mrs. Risikat Abeje Lasisi, assured the government of the association’s readiness to cooperate and adopt measures proposed for maintaining cleanliness in all markets and their surroundings.

The meeting also addressed the need for functional public toilets in markets, the discouragement of roadside trading, and the importance of preventing open defecation to maintain a pollution-free environment.

The Managing Director of Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegeshin, highlighted the government’s commitment to effective waste management and building a people-friendly environment.

The enforcement of the Styrofoam ban aligns with the state government’s efforts to create a clean and healthy living environment, reflecting the THEMES plus Agenda of the present administration.