Abuja: The Federal Ministry of Environment has reaffirmed its dedication to tackling plastic pollution, aiming for a cleaner and more resilient environment. Malam Balarabe Lawal, the Minister of Environment, emphasized this commitment during an event in Abuja commemorating the 2025 World Environment Day, which is observed annually on June 5.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the government has introduced a strategic framework known as the National Policy on Plastic Waste Management. This policy aims to decrease plastic usage, promote recycling, and encourage the development of alternatives to single-use plastics. Minister Lawal outlined the Federal Government of Nigeria’s commitment under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership to address plastic pollution in alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda. He highlighted that plastic pollution poses not only environmental challenges but also economic and public health concerns.
The ministry has also launched the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Programme, requiring producers to take responsibility for their plastic products throughout their lifecycle, from production to disposal. Collaborative efforts with stakeholders across government, industry, and civil society aim to translate environmental policies into meaningful impact. Lawal emphasized the importance of public involvement in combating plastic pollution, describing it as essential for ecosystem preservation and the planet’s survival.
Lawal acknowledged Nigeria’s challenges in managing plastic waste, noting the environmental and public health issues caused by plastic pollution in both urban and rural areas. He highlighted initiatives to support innovative circular economy models to promote recycling and plastic alternatives within government entities.
Massandje Toure-Litse, Commissioner of Economic Affairs and Agriculture at the ECOWAS Commission, reiterated the organization’s commitment to a sustainable environment. She warned against microwaving light plastics due to potential health risks and emphasized the regional impact of plastic pollution. A World Bank report cited by Toure-Litse indicates that the region produces nearly eight million metric tonnes of plastic waste annually, a figure expected to rise by 52% in five years. She stressed the need for a coordinated regional response to this transboundary issue, with ECOWAS adopting regional regulations.
Ghana and Nigeria are advancing the Circular Economy Initiative, and the ECOWAS Commission is working to harmonize environmental standards and promote green industrialization. Key stakeholders such as Mrs. Alero Balogun of Oando Clean Energy Ltd and Mrs. Habiba Abubakar of ZoomLion Nigeria also expressed their commitment to supporting the fight against plastic pollution and transforming plastic waste into economic opportunities.
