In this regard, the Federal Government has constituted an Inter-Ministerial Committee on the Ban of Single-Use Plastics, marking a vital stride in the direction of fostering environmental sustainability and efficient waste management throughout the country.
Speaking during the inauguration, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume represented by the Permanent Secretary in charge of General Services Office, Mohammed Sanusi Danjuma said the ban aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to global environmental standards and determination to combat plastic pollution that threatens public health, ecosystems, and marine life.
According to Akume, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved the ban following a memorandum presented by the Minister of Environment on June 25, 2024. The decision targets the use of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles, styrofoam, plastic bags, sachet water packs, and straws identified as major contributors to environmental degradation and poor sanitation.
“The improper disposal of plastic material remains a leading cause of marine pollution and land degradation,” he said. “Plastic wastes take a long time to decompose, posing a serious threat to wildlife and human health due to the release of toxic chemicals.”
In a statement by the Director of Information in the Office of the SGF, Segun Imohiosen, the committee was mandated to ensure the coordination and enforcement of the ban across the country.
These include studying the effects that single-use plastics have, assessing the wider ramifications of such a ban, and developing plans for encouraging sustainable environmental practices throughout the plastic value chain. The government noted that the move reflects Nigeria’s leadership in environmental protection and its commitment to the attainment of the United Nations SDGs.
