Some people living in Lagos have raised concerns about the continued use of Single-Use Plastics (SUPs) like plastic bags, spoons, and cups in markets, parties, and shops, even though the government has banned them.
They shared their worries during interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos.
A reporter from NAN visited different areas to check if the ban was being followed. They found that items like nylon bags and plastic spoons are still commonly used in places such as Ikotun, Ayobo, Okota, Ajao Estate, Ajah, and Iyana Ipaja.
The Lagos State Government began fully enforcing the ban on July 1. This came after an 18-month grace period, which started when the ban was first announced in January 2024.
The ban targets items like styrofoam food packs, disposable cups, plastic straws, cutlery, and thin nylon bags (under 40 microns in thickness).
However, thicker plastic bags, PET bottles, and sachet water are not affected by the ban.
Mr. Anthony Ewubare, a resident of Ikotun, said shops in his area still use nylon bags to wrap goods for customers.“It feels like nothing has changed. Shops are still giving out nylons like before,” he said.
Mrs. Itunu Owokade from Ayobo said she noticed plastic spoons and cups are still used at parties.“I went to a party last weekend, and they still used plastic plates and spoons.
Nothing was different,” she told NAN.Miss Blessing Okoro also said the ban hasn’t had much effect in Okota.“Even food sellers still use plastic bags for packing food,” she said.
Mrs. Funmilayo Ojo, who sells nylon bags at Iyana Ipaja Market, said the companies that used to supply black nylon bags have now stopped production.“I’m only selling what’s left from the last batch.
The producers have stopped making this type because of the government ban,” she said.
Despite this, the NAN reporter saw that traders at Iyana Ipaja Market were still openly selling banned plastic items, showing that not everyone is following the rules yet.
Sellers at Abule Market in Ajao Estate are also still using and selling these items.
A tomato seller named Abu said he would continue using nylon bags until the government provides another option.
Responding to the situation, Mr. Kunle Adeshina, a spokesperson for the Lagos Ministry of the Environment, admitted that full compliance will take time.“It’s not surprising that some people are still testing the rules.
We will keep enforcing the law and also educate people about the harm these plastics cause,” he said.
Environmental expert and EnvironNews publisher Mr. Michael Simire said it’s too soon to judge how well the ban is working.
He said the government is taking positive steps by trying to enforce the ban and encourage eco-friendly habits.
Simire explained that over time, we should look for less plastic waste—especially styrofoam—in streets and drains, and more people and businesses using eco-friendly alternatives.
He also said it’s important to check how well people are following the rules, from manufacturers to everyday users.
Lastly, he stressed that education, strong enforcement, and involving everyone—businesses, government, and the public—are all key to making the ban successful.
