The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a ban on single-use plastics in all ministries, departments, and agencies, effective immediately. This decision was made known by the Minister of State for Environment, Iziaq Salako, after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting chaired by President Bola Tinubu in Abuja.
According to Salako, the ban is in line with the National Policy on Plastic Waste Management adopted in 2020, which aims to phase out certain categories of single-use plastics by January 2025. These include plastic spoons, straws, pet bottles, water sachets, and others.
The minister emphasized that the ban is a step towards tackling plastic pollution, climate change, and biodiversity loss, which have become significant challenges in the country. He noted that plastic waste often clogs drains, contributes to flooding, and pollutes oceans, posing a threat to human health and the environment.
The Federal Government’s move follows a similar ban imposed by the Lagos State Government in January, which prohibited single-use plastics and Styrofoam in the state.
This ban is seen as a positive step towards reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainability in Nigeria.
