The Federal Government has inaugurated an Inter-Ministerial Committee to enforce the nationwide ban on single-use plastics (SUPs), a move aimed at tackling plastic pollution and promoting environmental sustainability.
The inauguration took place on Tuesday in Abuja, with Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, represented by Permanent Secretary Mohammed Danjuma.
Akume said the initiative aligns with global environmental standards and Nigeria’s efforts to reduce plastic pollution, which threatens public health, ecosystems, and marine life.
“Plastic wastes take a long time to decompose and pose serious risks to wildlife and human health due to toxic chemicals,” he noted.
The committee, made up of representatives from key ministries, agencies, and stakeholders, will oversee strategies to phase out products like PET bottles, plastic bags, sachet water, styrofoam, and straws.
Its mandate includes assessing the impact of SUPs, evaluating the benefits of the ban, and promoting best environmental practices within the plastic value chain.
The federal government described the committee’s work as a demonstration of Nigeria’s leadership in environmental protection and commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
