Single-use Plastic Ban: Lagos to Begin Full Enforcement by July 2025
The Lagos State Government has announced it will begin full enforcement of its ban on single-use plastics (SUPs), including Styrofoam, starting July 1, 2025.
Tokunbo Wahab, the state’s Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, announced on Monday in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), reaffirming the government’s commitment to curbing plastic pollution across the metropolis.
“Now it’s time to act,” Wahab declared, noting that the state has spent the past 18 months engaging with stakeholders, including marketers and manufacturers of SUPs, in preparation for the policy rollout. “We’re not here to score points. We’re here to do the work.”
Single-use plastics — items designed for short-term use and often discarded after one application — have been widely criticised for their contribution to environmental degradation. Styrofoam, a branded polystyrene foam often used in disposable cups and food containers, is among the key culprits.
Lagos first announced a ban on SUPs and Styrofoam in January 2024. The move sparked mixed reactions, with some residents and industry players criticising the government for what they perceived as an abrupt decision. However, Wahab said the government has taken a strategic, phased approach to implementation, allowing time for adaptation and compliance.
“This is about environmental responsibility,” Wahab said. “We have given ample time to align with global best practices. What is unacceptable elsewhere cannot become standard in Lagos. We must protect our future and do what is right for the greater good.”
The commissioner reaffirmed the state’s readiness to replicate its firm stance on the Styrofoam ban, which has already seen visible enforcement. He emphasised that accountability and compliance will be at the heart of this next phase.
During a recent courtesy visit by the management of TETRA PAK West Africa, Wahab reiterated the government’s resolve to prioritise environmental health over convenience or profit.
