Lagos State defends sales of packing bags amid ban on Single-Use Plastics

The Lagos State Government has defended the sale of packing bags in some malls across the state, following public concerns sparked by the enforcement of a ban on single-use plastics.

It was reported that several residents expressed frustration over having to purchase shopping bags while grocery shopping, especially in major malls.

However, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Environment, Olawale Rotimi-Akodu, clarified that this practice aligns with global standards and is aimed at encouraging sustainability and responsible consumer behavior.

“It’s an optional thing. You have the option of bringing your own [bags] from your house. You can have it in your car and take it to the mall to contain your items,” Akodu said in an interview.

The special adviser explained that the Lagos State Government is determined to raise environmental consciousness and reduce plastic waste by promoting the reusability of packaging materials.

“All over the world – Europe, America, or Asia – this is what is obtainable. When you get to the mall or grocery stores, they will show you different categories of packing bags and their costs,” he said.

Akodu added that the malls are simply filling a convenience gap for customers who may not bring their own bags, and not exploiting shoppers.

“The whole idea is to try to change the culture. The malls are only helping to provide that gap. If you go with your own bag, then they [malls] have no benefit.”

Crackdown on Single-Use Plastics

The clarification comes amid heightened enforcement actions by the Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) task force and other environmental agencies, who have begun confiscating packs of nylons in markets, particularly in Lagos Island, as part of the full-scale ban on single-use plastics below 40 microns, which took effect on Tuesday, July 1, 2025.

The ban affects Styrofoam food packs, plastic straws, lightweight nylon bags, disposable cups, and plastic cutlery, among others.

The Commissioner for the Environment, Tokunbo Wahab, earlier announced that any business found storing, distributing, or selling banned items would be sealed and liable to penalties under Lagos State’s environmental regulations.

“This enforcement is not a witch-hunt but a decisive step towards saving our environment and protecting public health,” Wahab said in a previous statement.

The Lagos State Government has urged businesses and residents to embrace sustainable alternatives, such as reusable bags and biodegradable materials, to support a cleaner and healthier city.