The Lagos State Government has started full-scale enforcement of its ban on single-use plastics below 40-microns, with effect from Tuesday, 1 July 2025 (Today).
The move, aimed at tackling environmental degradation and promoting sustainable living, targets Styrofoam food packs, plastic straws, lightweight nylon bags, disposable cups, and plastic cutlery.
The state government announced that any business found storing, selling, or distributing these items would be sealed. Offenders will also face penalties in line with Lagos’ environmental regulations.
Announcing the enforcement at a press briefing in Lagos, Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, said the ban applies specifically to plastic items below 40 microns in thickness, identified as a key cause of drainage blockages and pollution across the state’s coastal and urban areas.
Wahab stated,”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.
“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.”
Wahab emphasised that the ban serves the public interest, citing the urgent need to safeguard health and protect the environment.
He reiterated that the state government is fully committed to sustainable policies.
Clarifying the scope of the ban, the commissioner noted that not all plastics are affected. The crackdown is focused on four specific categories of single-use plastics due to their non-biodegradable nature.
He also confirmed that while the circulation of these items is now prohibited within Lagos, their transport to other states where such restrictions do not apply remains allowed.
Responding to concerns over job losses, Wahab dismissed fears, saying the policy shift will create new opportunities rather than eliminate existing ones.
“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 added that Lagos now joins over 70 countries and major cities around the world that have introduced similar restrictions since Bangladesh became the first to ban single-use plastics in 2002.
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