The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing a complete ban on single-use plastics (SUPs) this month as part of its broader strategy to tackle environmental pollution.

The announcement follows significant strides in reducing styrofoam litter since the initial ban on SUPs was introduced in January 2024.

Speaking during a tour of flood-prone areas on Lagos Island on Monday, Tokunbo Wahab, Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, underscored the importance of the ban.

“There is no going back on a total ban of SUPs,” Wahab said. “We are currently having conversations on how to phase them off. The enforcement will take effect before the end of January.”

SUPs, which include products like styrofoam and disposable plastic containers, are widely recognised as major contributors to pollution and waste.

Their ban aligns with global efforts to reduce environmental damage caused by non-biodegradable waste.

During the inspection, Wahab also highlighted the impact of poor waste disposal habits on infrastructure. At the Ilubirin pump station, he expressed concern over clogged systems caused by human activity, adding that the state government is assessing whether ongoing projects in the area will proceed.

“In fairness to the government, infrastructure such as functional drainage, roads, and walkways were properly built under contract.

However, the level of degradation due to bad human behaviour is alarming,” Wahab noted.

The commissioner said the inspection tour was crucial to ensuring contractors are ready to resume work and to determine whether project timelines could be shortened.

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