LAGOS, Nigeria — The Lagos State Government has clarified that its upcoming ban on single-use plastics (SUPs) will not affect polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles or sachet water, popularly known as “pure water,” easing public concerns triggered by viral misinformation online.
In a statement released Tuesday by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, the government reiterated that the ban—set to be enforced from Tuesday, July 1, 2025—will focus strictly on specific categories of environmentally harmful plastics.
“The position of the state government has not changed,” Wahab said.
“Only single-use plastics consisting of styrofoam food packs and all forms of polystyrene cups (disposable cups) are banned.”
He added that the ban also includes plastic straws, plastic cutlery, and all single-use nylon and carrier bags with a thickness below 40 microns.
The statement, signed by Director of Public Affairs Kunle Adeshina, was issued to counter what the government described as “deliberate viral misrepresentations” suggesting that all types of plastic packaging, including PET bottles and sachet water, were included in the ban.
Wahab confirmed that PET bottles, used widely for soft drinks and bottled water, as well as nylon bags exceeding 40 microns in thickness, are exempt from the ban.
He said the exemptions reflect the state’s practical approach to sustainable waste management and industry realities.
He emphasised that the government will begin strict enforcement from July 1, following the conclusion of an 18-month moratorium period granted after the policy’s initial announcement in January 2024.
“This moratorium was granted to allow producers, importers, and distributors time to adjust their operations and transition to more sustainable alternatives,” Wahab noted.
To bolster the state’s efforts, Wahab announced the launch of a Plastic Waste Management Fund, a collaborative initiative involving the Lagos State Government, private producers, and Producer Responsibility Organisations (PROs).
“The fund will be financed by contributions from major producers and importers and will be jointly managed to tackle plastic waste pollution in Lagos,” he said.
The policy is part of broader efforts by the Lagos State Government to address growing environmental concerns over plastic pollution in the densely populated commercial capital.
Styrofoam and low-grade plastics, in particular, have been blamed for clogging drainage systems and contributing to urban flooding and environmental degradation.
Environmental advocacy groups have lauded the move but warned that clear communication and consistent enforcement will be key to its success.
The Lagos government has pledged to intensify public sensitisation ahead of the enforcement date and to ensure industry stakeholders are carried along in the implementation of the ban.
“Lagos cannot afford to be left behind in the global movement toward sustainable urban living,” Wahab stated.
“We must all take responsibility for protecting our environment.”
