Lagos plastic ban: Traders lament ahead of implementation

Some traders in Lagos have expressed concerns over the impending enforcement of the Lagos State Government’s ban on single-use plastic bags, set to take effect on July 1.

In separate interviews with the Voice Of the People (VOP) on Monday, several traders shared their frustrations regarding the ban, which prohibits the sale and use of disposable plastic bags, including the widely used black nylon bags.

The policy has drawn criticism from market traders and plastic manufacturers who claim the ban was rushed, with little effort to provide accessible or affordable alternatives.

Mr. Tunde Adebayo, manager of a plastic bag production facility in the Costain area, warned that the ban could lead to significant job losses in the sector. “This is our main business. If they stop plastic, what happens to our jobs? We employ over 40 staff. We’ve received no support or notice of alternatives from the government,” he said.

At Oyingbo Market, where nylon bags are routinely used to package perishable goods like peppers, tomatoes, meat, and vegetables, some traders said they were unaware of the ban or its enforcement date.

Mrs. Bimbo Adetola, a trader with over 10 years’ experience at Oyingbo Market, said she was uncertain about how she would package her goods without plastic bags. “I do not even know what I will use to wrap tomatoes or meat. What do they expect us to use when they are banning plastics without an alternative in place?” she asked. “The government should bring another option first before they ban nylon bags.”

Another trader, known simply as Madam Ifeoma, said the traders would find ways to adapt and make do with what they have. “If the ban on plastic nylons is enforced, we will try to manage what we have. We cannot give the goods to our customers with bare hands; it cannot work that way,” she explained.

Consumers also raised concerns about the affordability of alternatives to single-use plastics. Many noted that biodegradable nylon bags cost about three times more than regular nylon bags, making them difficult for everyday shoppers to afford.

Mr. Abdul Musa, a shopper, said that even paper bags, another proposed alternative, were not strong enough for carrying most perishable items. “Even with paper bags available, what do you expect shoppers to do when it rains? If the government does not provide workable solutions and alternatives following the plastic ban, people will find a way to still use single-use plastics in secret,” he warned.

As the July 1 deadline approaches, traders, manufacturers, and consumers are urging the government to provide clearer guidance and affordable alternatives to ease the transition and avoid disruption to livelihoods and daily commerce.

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