Eko Hot Blog reports the Federal Government of Nigeria is gearing up to enforce a ban on single-use plastics across all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), according to the Minister of State for Environment, Dr. Iziaq Kunle Salako.
Speaking during the second edition of the Chemical Handlers and Users’ Workshop in Abeokuta, Ogun State, the minister revealed that the ban is already in effect within the Ministry of Environment and is expected to be implemented nationwide.
Salako emphasized the government’s commitment to environmental sustainability, stating, “We shall be presenting a memo to the Federal Executive Council, praying for the FEC to approve the banning of single-use plastics in all MDAs of the Federal Government of Nigeria.”
The move is part of broader initiatives to promote a circular economy and reduce the environmental impact of plastic waste.
In addition to the ban, the Federal Government is planning to establish recycling plants in each of the 774 local government areas in Nigeria.
This initiative aims to contribute to a circular economy by promoting responsible waste management practices and creating sustainable solutions for plastic waste.
The minister addressed challenges hindering the implementation of a circular economy, including inadequate policy frameworks, legal and regulatory gaps, insufficient funds, and a lack of recycling technologies.
However, Salako affirmed the government’s resolve to overcome these obstacles, stating, “Despite these challenges, the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is resolute in achieving a clean, circular, and buoyant economy for the nation.”
The announcement comes on the heels of a similar move by the Lagos State Government, which recently banned Styrofoam and other single-use plastics across the state.
Salako’s statement also highlighted the government’s intention to address other aspects of sustainable waste management, including community-based waste management programs and waste-to-wealth entrepreneurship initiatives.
The workshop, themed “Chemicals and Waste Management: Circular Solutions for a Sustainable Economy,” emphasized the importance of responsible chemical and waste management practices in achieving a sustainable economy.
The Federal Ministry of Environment aims to commence the full implementation of the circular economy roadmap for Nigeria in 2024 as part of its commitment to environmental stewardship.
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