The Federal Government has inaugurated an Inter-Ministerial Committee to enforce the nationwide ban on single-use plastics, marking a major step toward promoting environmental sustainability and effective waste management across Nigeria.
At the inauguration ceremony, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation , Senator George Akume, CON—represented by the Permanent Secretary overseeing the General Services Office, Mohammed Sanusi Danjuma—stated that the decision aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to global environmental standards and its determination to reduce the harmful effects of plastic pollution on public health, ecosystems, and marine life.
He explained that the decision followed a Federal Executive Council meeting held on June 2024, where a memorandum presented by the Minister of Environment led to the approval of a nationwide ban on single-use plastics.
The items affected include polyethylene terephthalate bottles, styrofoam containers, plastic bags, sachet water packaging, and drinking straws.
Danjuma highlighted that the inappropriate disposal of plastic materials has long been a source of environmental degradation, marine pollution, and public health challenges.
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He noted that plastic waste takes several years to decompose, releasing toxic chemicals that threaten both wildlife and human life.
The newly inaugurated committee consists of representatives from key ministries, departments, agencies, and stakeholder organisations.
It has been tasked with coordinating and overseeing the implementation of the ban, while also developing policies and strategies to phase out single-use plastics nationwide.
The committee’s Terms of Reference include investigating the use of single-use plastics, evaluating the benefits and broader implications of the ban, and promoting best environmental practices across the plastic value chain.
The Federal Government described the initiative as a demonstration of Nigeria’s commitment to environmental stewardship and its resolve to meet the Sustainable Development Goals by fostering cleaner, safer, and more sustainable communities.
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