Nigeria unveils framework to curb plastic pollution

The Federal Ministry of Environment has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to tackle plastic pollution, aiming for a cleaner, greener, and more resilient Nigeria.

This pledge was made on Tuesday in Abuja during an event commemorating the 2025 World Environment Day, observed annually on June 5.

Malam Balarabe Lawal, Minister of Environment, highlighted the government’s strategic approach, including the National Policy on Plastic Waste Management.

This framework is designed to curb plastic usage, boost recycling efforts, and foster innovation in sustainable alternatives to single-use plastics.

The ministry also launched the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Programme, compelling producers to manage the entire lifecycle of their plastic products, from production to disposal.

Lawal stressed that the fight against plastic pollution must be a “people-oriented movement” to preserve ecosystems and the planet.

He assured that the ministry will support innovative circular economy models to drive recycling and promote plastic alternatives across government agencies.

Massandje Toure-Litse, Commissioner, Economic Affairs and Agriculture, ECOWAS Commission, cautioned against microwaving light plastics, citing the risk of cancer due to hydrocarbons released from the oil-derived material.

Toure-Litse revealed that West Africa generates nearly eight million metric tonnes of plastic waste annually, a figure projected to increase by 52 percent within five years, with over 80 percent of this waste poorly managed.

“The cost of damage of one tonne of plastic pollution is about 10,000 to 33,000 dollars. There is a growing recognition that plastic pollution is a transboundary problem that requires a coordinated regional response,” he said.

“So in this regard, ECOWAS is committed to addressing persistent challenges by adopting a regional regulation.”