The Federal Government has inaugurated the Inter-Ministerial Committee on the ban of Single-Use Plastics (SUPs), marking a significant step towards environmental sustainability and waste management reform in the country.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary Overseeing General Services Office (GSO), Mohammed Danjuma, inaugurated the committee in Abuja.

He emphasised that the ban on single-use plastics is an initiative that aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to global environmental standards and the resolve to reduce plastic pollution that poses serious threats to public health, ecosystems and marine life.

‘‘The Federal Government arrived at this decision following a Federal Executive Council Memorandum EC (2024), presented by the Honourable Minister of Environment, which was held on Tuesday, 25 June 2024.

The FEC decision was In line with the Federal Government’s efforts to tackle various health and environmental challenges, especially those caused by single-use plastics products and therefore, approved the ban in the country of polyethene terephthalate (PET) bottles, styrofoam, plastic bags, sachet water and straw, which has become an environmental sanitation challenge.

“The inappropriate disposal of plastic materials is a major cause of marine pollution as well as land degradation. Plastic wastes take a longer time to decompose both on land and water, therefore, pose a serious threat to wildlife and public health due to the toxic chemicals,” Akume said.

The Committee, which comprises key representatives from various MDAs, and Stakeholder organisations, is charged with the mandate to coordinate and oversee the implementation of policies and strategies aimed at phasing out single-use plastics nationwide.

The Terms of Reference of the Committee are to investigate the issue of Single Use Plastics, evaluate the benefits and broader implications of the ban on use of SUPs, and design the ways and means in the promotion of the best environmental practices within the Plastic Value Chain, amongst others.

The ban on single-use of plastics is an initiative that underscores Nigeria’s leadership in environmental stewardship and commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). (Nigerian Tribune)