Shops and markets across Lagos risk being sealed as the state government starts full enforcement of its ban on single-use plastics below 40 microns from Tuesday, July 1.
Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, announced the crackdown at a press briefing in Lagos. He warned that anyone caught storing, selling, or distributing the banned plastic items would face legal action.
Items affected include Styrofoam food packs, plastic straws, disposable cups, plastic cutlery, and lightweight nylon bags. Wahab explained that these items were chosen because they are hard to recycle, cause drainage blockages, and damage the environment.
“We gave a six-month grace period, which ended on June 30. Some assumed enforcement would be postponed due to pressure. That will not happen,” he said.
“Let me be clear, any store, shop, or market caught storing or dealing in single-use plastics below 40 microns will be sealed, and those responsible will face legal consequences under Lagos environmental laws.”
He said the ban is in public interest and urged businesses to adopt eco-friendly alternatives. He added that the government would not back down, as the policy aligns with global practices.
More than 70 countries and cities have already introduced similar bans since Bangladesh became the first in 2002. Wahab said Lagos is ready to follow this global shift toward protecting the environment.
He also responded to fears about possible job losses, saying the move would not destroy jobs but rather create new ones as industries shift to safer packaging.
“It’s simple, no jobs will be lost. On the contrary, more employment will be generated as industries shift to eco-friendly alternatives,” he said.
Wahab explained that the ban only applies within Lagos and does not stop companies from transporting the products to states without similar restrictions.
