ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- In a significant move to address the menace of plastic pollution, the Federal Government of Nigeria has banned the use of single-use plastics in all ministries, departments, and agencies.
This decision was announced by the Minister of State for Environment, Iziaq Salako, after the Federal Executive Council meeting chaired by President Bola Tinubu in Abuja.
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.
By leading by example, the Federal Government of Nigeria seeks to prepare Nigerians for the impending ban and inspire a shift towards sustainable practices.
READ ALSO: Plastic-based Synthetic Products Are Hazardous To Human Health – Report
“If you look at the National Policy on Plastic Waste Management which was adopted in 2020, it envisages that by January 2025, some categories of plastics will be banned in Nigeria and most of them are single-use, plastic spoons, straws, pet bottles, water sachets and so on.
“What the Federal Government is doing is preparing the minds of Nigerians and leading by example,” the minister said.
The move is part of the government’s commitment to tackling climate change, biodiversity loss, and plastic pollution, which have become significant challenges in the country.
Plastic waste has been identified as a major contributor to clogged drains, flooding, ocean pollution, and harmful effects on human health and the environment.
The Lagos State Government had earlier set a precedent by banning single-use plastics and Styrofoam in the state in January.
The government’s decision is expected to have a ripple effect, encouraging other states and citizens to join the fight against plastic pollution.