The Nigerian government has announced plans to tackle plastic pollution with the inauguration of a high-level committee to oversee the country’s forthcoming ban on single-use plastics.
The Inter-Ministerial Committee on the Ban of Single-Use Plastics (SUPs) was officially launched yesterday by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).
It was said that the ban, approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) on 25 June 2024, targets commonly used items including polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles, styrofoam food containers, plastic shopping bags, sachet water packaging, and plastic straws.
In his address, SGF George Akume said the initiative reflects Nigeria’s commitment to global environmental standards and sustainable development goals.
"The FEC decision aligns with the Federal Government’s drive to address health and environmental challenges posed by single-use plastics.
"These products have become a major environmental sanitation concern across the country," he said.
He added that improper disposal of plastic waste is a leading cause of marine pollution and land degradation.
"Plastic materials take a long time to decompose on both land and in water, posing serious risks to wildlife and public health due to toxic chemicals," he said.
Represented at the ceremony by the Permanent Secretary of the General Services Office, Mohammed Sanusi Danjuma, Akume added that the government’s move constitutes its most decisive action yet against plastic pollution.
The committee is expected to develop an implementation framework, including enforcement strategies and public awareness campaigns, to ensure the ban’s success nationwide.
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