The Lagos State Government has announced plans to intensify enforcement of the ban on single-use plastics (SUPs) under 40 microns across major markets and retail outlets in the state.
This was disclosed by the Corps Marshal of the Lagos Environmental Sanitation Corps (KAI), retired Major Olatunbosun Cole, during a two-day enforcement operation at Bolade Market in Oshodi and Ojuwoye Market in Mushin.
Cole explained that the crackdown targets the widespread use of SUPs, which contribute significantly to plastic pollution and urban flooding in Lagos.
He urged traders and consumers to switch to reusable plastic alternatives, noting that enforcement would continue until compliance is fully achieved.
“Today is day two of the enforcement. Yesterday, we were at Alakoro Market on Lagos Island. This morning, we visited Bolade Market in Oshodi, and now we are at Ojuwoye Market in Mushin,” Cole said.
He reiterated that traders must only sell plastic products that meet the minimum thickness requirement of 40 microns for the collective benefit of the environment and public health.
During the exercise, the enforcement team confiscated banned plastic items such as lightweight nylon bags, disposable cups, plates, straws, and plastic cutlery.
The ban was originally announced in January 2024, with an 18-month moratorium granted to manufacturers and businesses to transition to environmentally friendly alternatives before enforcement began on July 1, 2025.
Cole added that the state government had already conducted several stakeholder engagements with manufacturers, restaurants, and food service operators to raise awareness about the ban.
He emphasized that single-use plastics often end up in oceans and lagoons, posing a serious threat to aquatic life and human health.
“The enforcement operation is part of our broader environmental strategy to address pollution and the health risks associated with SUPs,” Cole said.
