The Lagos State Government has moved to clarify public concerns over the impending ban on Single-Use Plastics (SUPs), confirming that the prohibition does not extend to PET bottles, water sachets, and nylon bags thicker than 40 microns. This comes as the July 1, 2025, enforcement date draws near, marking the full implementation of a statewide ban that has been 18 months in the making.

The clarification was delivered by the Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, through a public statement on his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. His message addressed growing inquiries from residents who had requested more precise information on which categories of SUPs fall under the restriction.

Focused Ban Targets Styrofoam and Polystyrene Products

Wahab explained that the state government’s position has remained consistent since it initially announced the policy in January 2024. According to him, the ban specifically targets the most environmentally damaging forms of plastic—namely, styrofoam food containers and all varieties of polystyrene cups typically used for serving food and beverages.

He elaborated further in his statement:

“To provide clarity: the Lagos State Government has defined specific categories under the ban on Single Use Plastics (SUPs), effective from July 1, 2025. The items banned outright include Styrofoam food packs, all forms of polystyrene cups (disposable cups), plastic straws, plastic cutlery, and nylon carrier bags with less than 40-micron thickness.”

This means residents can continue using certain plastic items, like PET bottles and sachet water, under specific conditions—mainly governed by the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework. This framework mandates that producers of plastic products bear responsibility for their lifecycle, particularly the recovery and recycling stages.

PET Bottles and Sachet Water Remain, but with Conditions

Though exempt from the outright ban, PET bottles, nylon bags thicker than 40 microns, and sachet water packaging must now be managed under stricter producer oversight. These products, while not prohibited, are expected to be collected and recycled through producer-funded initiatives.

Wahab emphasized this point, stating:

“Under the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework, the following items are permitted for now but must be managed by their producers for proper recovery and recycling.”

The Commissioner assured residents that the government remains committed to providing ongoing updates and guidance as the ban’s implementation phase begins. He thanked Lagosians for their feedback and support, noting that “your suggestions are well taken, and we appreciate your support as we work towards a cleaner, greener Lagos.”

New Plastic Waste Fund Unveiled

In a clear indication of the administration’s determination to follow through with the ban, Wahab revealed the creation of a Plastic Waste Management Fund, a collaborative initiative involving the government, major product manufacturers, and Producer Responsibility Organisations (PROs).

According to him, this fund will be financed through contributions from producers and large-scale importers of plastic products. The jointly managed fund is intended to provide long-term solutions for the state’s mounting plastic waste problem by supporting cleanup, recycling infrastructure, and public education.

“This is a collaborative effort between the state government, the producers, and the Producers Responsibility Organisations,” Wahab said. “The plastics waste management fund will be jointly managed to address plastic waste challenges in the state.”

Enforcement Begins July 1 After 18-Month Moratorium

Wahab reiterated that the ban will go into full effect on July 1, 2025, marking the conclusion of an 18-month grace period that began with the original announcement in January 2024. During that moratorium, businesses, vendors, and consumers were expected to adjust operations and adopt more sustainable packaging and distribution practices.

This clarification came just a day after Wahab, during a courtesy visit by the leadership of Tetra Pak West Africa Limited in Alausa, Ikeja, confirmed that the state had been deliberate and strategic in its approach to eliminating harmful plastics from daily use.

“The ban on single-use plastic first commenced in January 2024, when the Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources announced a prohibition on the usage and distribution of styrofoam and other single-use plastics,” Wahab explained during the meeting.

Why Lagos Is Targeting SUPs

Single-use plastics have posed a long-standing threat to Lagos’ environmental health. As Nigeria’s most populous and commercially vibrant state, Lagos generates thousands of tons of plastic waste daily, much of which clogs drainage systems, contributes to flooding, and ends up in the ocean.

Styrofoam, polystyrene, and lightweight plastic packaging are particularly notorious for their non-biodegradable nature and inability to be economically recycled. Their lightweight makes them prone to being carried by wind and rain, often ending up in water bodies or public drains. As a result, these materials have been linked to the state’s recurring flash floods, environmental degradation, and public health issues.

Looking Ahead: A Phased Environmental Transition

The Lagos State Government’s phased approach reflects a balancing act—preserving environmental sustainability while recognizing the current limitations of Nigeria’s recycling ecosystem. By sparing PET bottles and water sachets for now, the administration seeks to avoid disrupting livelihoods and supply chains tied to the beverage industry, while gradually moving stakeholders toward responsible waste practices.

However, Wahab’s comments suggest that even these temporarily exempt categories may eventually face regulation or restriction if recycling and recovery mechanisms do not improve significantly.

Final Thoughts

Lagos’ move to clarify its SUP policy provides much-needed guidance as the July enforcement date nears. The state government’s exclusion of PET bottles and sachet water from the ban—for now—offers a measure of relief for businesses and consumers. But the message is clear: plastic producers must step up their recycling commitments, and residents must begin embracing reusable alternatives.

Ultimately, the long-term success of the initiative will depend on coordinated action among government agencies, manufacturers, recyclers, and citizens. As Lagos pushes forward with its “Cleaner Lagos” vision, this ban represents a critical step toward more sustainable urban living in Africa’s largest city.