The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency, NESREA, says the National Environmental Plastic Waste Control Regulations 2026 are aimed at tackling pollution and promoting a circular economy, not shutting down industries.
The agency made the clarification in response to concerns raised by the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, saying some interpretations of the regulations are inaccurate and misleading.
NESREA said the rules provide a phased and consultative framework designed to improve recycling, producer responsibility, waste recovery and sustainable packaging across the value chain.
It stressed that the widely cited 80 micron requirement applies only to certain plastic carrier bags and does not amount to a blanket ban on single use plastics.
According to the agency, sensitive sectors such as food, pharmaceuticals and logistics are covered by separate provisions, while major requirements on recycled PET content will only begin to take effect from 2028 and 2030.
NESREA said the transition period is intended to give manufacturers and recyclers time to adjust operations and strengthen supply chains.
The agency argued that unregulated plastic pollution poses greater long term risks, including flooding, public health hazards and environmental degradation, adding that the regulations would create new opportunities in recycling and circular economy services.
It also maintained that the policy is guided by the polluter pays principle and is designed to strengthen Nigeria’s domestic recycling industry.
NESREA said it remains open to technical input from manufacturers and other stakeholders as implementation progresses.
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