The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has urged the Lagos State Government to reconsider its proposed ban on certain single-use plastics (SUPs), warning that the policy scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2025 could trigger significant job losses, disrupt supply chains, and impose economic hardship on thousands of Nigerians.
In a statement signed by MAN’s Director General, Segun Ajayi-Kadir, mni, the Association described the planned ban as “well-intentioned but poorly structured,” noting that it was introduced without sufficient data or meaningful consultation with stakeholders in the manufacturing and recycling industries.
“Plastic itself is not the problem, the real issue lies in the mismanagement of plastic waste. Rather than enforce a blanket ban, we call on the Lagos State Government to work with the private sector to develop a more balanced approach one that embraces circular economy principles grounded in evidence and inclusion’’, he stated.
He emphasized that the proposed ban is misaligned with Nigeria’s socio-economic conditions, contradicts the Federal Government’s National Plastic Action Plan, and overlooks progress made by industry-led initiatives such as the Food and Beverage Recycling Alliance (FBRA).
MAN highlighted that global best practice favours circular solutions over outright bans. With the global plastic recycling market valued at over $55 billion in 2023 and projected to reach $114 billion by 2032, Nigeria where recycling rates are still below 15% must invest in scalable solutions rather than stifle critical industries.
“Instead of restricting usage, we should focus on building recycling infrastructure, encouraging innovation, and supporting local producers of sustainable alternatives, Nigeria cannot afford to undermine its petrochemical and packaging sectors under the guise of environmental reform”, Ajayi-Kadir added.
Reaffirming its commitment to sustainability, MAN expressed its readiness to partner with government and environmental stakeholders to develop policies that safeguard the environment while protecting livelihoods and economic growth.
“We support the transition to cleaner, circular plastic systems. But policies must be inclusive, data-driven, and aligned with Nigeria’s broader development goals”, he said.
The Association called on the Lagos State Government to base its environmental policies on credible local data, engage in inclusive consultations with affected sectors, and invest in recycling infrastructure and alternative material development while aligning with national regulatory frameworks to ensure coherence and effectiveness.
