Lagos’ Single-Use Plastics Ban: Enforcement and Challenges

1. Lagos’ Single-Use Plastics Ban: Enforcement and Challenges

Lagos State officially began enforcing its ban on select single-use plastics—such as styrofoam food containers, plastic straws, disposable cutlery, and lightweight nylon bags—on July 1, 2025. Any infractions can result in fines or legal action, and markets or stores found in violation may be sealed off .

The ban specifically targets plastics under 40 microns; crucially, PET bottles, sachet water, and thicker nylon bags remain exempt, though they are subject to Extended Producer Responsibility rules .

While environmental advocates applaud the bold move, stakeholders remain concerned. The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) criticized the ban as impractical without sufficient alternatives and cautioned that it may lead to business disruptions and job losses .

2. Flooding and Water Crisis: From Mokwa to Adamawa

Mokwa Flood (May 2025, Niger State): Heavy rainfall, soil erosion, and a failing dam led to one of Nigeria’s deadliest floods. Over 500 people were confirmed dead, more than 600 went missing, and thousands of homes and infrastructure were destroyed .

Ongoing Floods Across Nigeria: In northeastern Adamawa State, torrential rains triggered flash floods that killed at least 25 people, displaced over 5,500 residents, and devastated livelihoods .

These incidents highlight the growing vulnerability to climate-driven disasters, exacerbated by poor drainage systems, deforestation, and weak infrastructure.

3. Major Oil Spill on the Trans Niger Pipeline

In early May 2025, the Trans Niger Pipeline—which transports crude oil to Nigeria’s Bonny export terminal—ruptured near Ogoniland, causing a significant oil spill. The environmental watchdog Health of Mother Earth Foundation criticized the slow response and called for the decommissioning of aging pipelines .

This spill is the latest in a string of environmental missteps impacting Ogoniland, an area already suffering from historical ecosystem degradation 

4. Young Nigerian Environmentalist Awarded for Innovative Green Project

Seventeen-year-old Amara Nwuneli won the 2025 Earth Prize and a $12,500 reward for turning a waste dump in Ikota, Lagos into a community playground made from recycled tires. The project includes flood-resistant greenery and has inspired plans for three more such parks across southwestern Nigeria—enhancing environmental resilience and awareness .