By Francis Wilfred
The Federal Government has inaugurated an Inter-Ministerial Committee to enforce the nationwide ban on single-use plastics (SUPs), marking a major step toward environmental sustainability and effective waste management in Nigeria.
The inauguration, held in Abuja, was presided over by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, CON, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Overseeing the General Services Office (GSO), Mohammed Sanusi Danjuma.
Akume stated that the ban aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to global environmental standards and its resolve to curb plastic pollution, which poses significant threats to public health, ecosystems, and marine life.
According to a statement signed by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Segun Imohiosen, the decision followed the approval of a Federal Executive Council (FEC) Memorandum EC (2024), presented by the Minister of Environment on June 25, 2024.
The Federal Government approved the prohibition of commonly used single-use plastic products such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles, styrofoam, plastic bags, sachet water pouches, and straws. These items, the statement noted, have contributed significantly to environmental pollution and poor sanitation across the country.
“The inappropriate disposal of plastic materials remains a major cause of marine pollution and land degradation. Plastic waste takes decades to decompose on land and in water, posing serious risks to wildlife and human health due to the toxic chemicals released,” Akume said.
The newly inaugurated committee is tasked with coordinating and overseeing the implementation of policies aimed at phasing out single-use plastics nationwide. It will also evaluate the environmental and economic implications of the ban, promote best practices within the plastic value chain, and recommend sustainable alternatives for consumers and industries.
The initiative underscores Nigeria’s leadership in environmental stewardship and its commitment to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to responsible consumption, climate action, and protection of life below water.
Committee Membership
The Inter-Ministerial Committee comprises representatives from key Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), alongside industry and civil society stakeholders. Members include:
1. Representative of the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (Chairman/PS, GSO)
2. Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment (FMITI)
3. Federal Ministry of Environment (FMEnv)
4. Federal Ministry of Finance (FMF)
5. Federal Ministry of Justice (Legal Adviser)
6. Regulatory Bodies (as may be co-opted)
7. Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN)
8. Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA)
9. National Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (nMSME)
10. Research Institutions such as the Nigerian Institute for Oceanography and Marine Research, and universities with environmental science programs
11. Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) focused on sustainability and waste management
12. Technical experts in packaging and recycling technologies
13. Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON)
14. Office of the SGF (GSO) – Member/Secretary
The committee will work collaboratively to develop and implement a transition roadmap for replacing single-use plastics with sustainable alternatives across industries, government institutions, and local communities.
