FG Sets Up Inter-Ministerial Committee to Enforce Nationwide Ban on Single-Use Plastics

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

The Federal Government has taken a decisive step in the fight against environmental pollution by setting up an inter-ministerial committee to enforce the nationwide ban on single-use plastics.

Officially inaugurated on November 11, 2025, the Inter-Ministerial Committee on the Ban of Single-Use Plastics is charged with coordinating policy implementation and monitoring the phase-out of materials such as plastic bags, straws, sachet-water wrappers, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles and styrofoam food containers.

The decision to ban such items stems from a Federal Executive Council approval granted in mid-2024, following years of advocacy by environmental groups and government agencies to address the country’s worsening plastic pollution crisis. The newly-formed committee brings together key ministries, departments and agencies as well as stakeholder organisations within the plastic-value chain.

Designing frameworks and mechanisms for best environmental practices in the plastic value-chain, covering production, usage, disposal and recycling.* Overseeing the implementation of the ban and coordinating its enforcement across federal, state and local levels.

While the ban marks a significant policy shift, its success will depend on several critical factors:

1. Enforcement capacity– Implementation across Nigeria’s diverse states and local governments will require coordination, funding and manpower.

2. Alternatives and affordability– Industries and consumers must have access to affordable and environmentally-friendly alternatives to single-use plastics.

3. Public awareness and behaviour change – The public must understand the environmental rationale and adopt reusable or biodegradable options.

4. Value-chain engagement – Producers, retailers and waste-management actors need to be involved to ensure their cooperation and compliance.

5. Monitoring and evaluation – Clear metrics for progress, such as reduction in plastic waste and compliance levels, will be essential to track effectiveness.