The Lagos State Government has announced that it has begun, with effect from Tuesday, July 1, 2025 (yesterday), strict enforcement of its ban on Styrofoam packs and other harmful single-use plastics.

According to the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, offenders, including markets, shops, and outlets caught storing or distributing banned items will face immediate closure and legal penalties.

Wahab issued the warning in a statement on Monday, stressing that the six-month grace period granted to businesses expired on June 30.

“We gave a six-month grace period, which ended on June 30. Some assumed enforcement would be postponed due to pressure. That will not happen.

“Let me be clear, any store, shop, or market caught storing or dealing in single-use plastics below 40 microns will be sealed, and those responsible will face legal consequences under Lagos environmental laws,” Wahab stated.

Wahab emphasised that the ban serves the public interest, citing the urgent need to safeguard health and protect the environment.

He reiterated that the state government is fully committed to sustainable policies.

Clarifying the scope of the ban, the commissioner noted that not all plastics are affected. The crackdown is focused on four specific categories of single-use plastics due to their non-biodegradable nature.

He also confirmed that while the circulation of these items is now prohibited within Lagos, their transport to other states where such restrictions do not apply remains allowed.

Responding to concerns over job losses, Wahab dismissed fears, saying the policy shift will create new opportunities rather than eliminate existing ones.

“It’s simple, no jobs will be lost. On the contrary, more employment will be generated as industries shift to eco-friendly alternatives,” he said.

Wahab added that Lagos now joins over 70 countries and major cities around the world that have introduced similar restrictions since Bangladesh became the first to ban single-use plastics in 2002.