Olusegun Adeyemo
Amid growing complaints from residents, the Lagos State Government has defended the sale of packing bags in malls across the state, insisting the practice aligns with international environmental standards.
This clarification follows the recent enforcement of the state’s ban on single-use plastics, which took effect on July 1, 2025. Residents had raised concerns over being charged for bags while shopping, despite the ban’s intention to reduce plastic consumption.
Olawale Rotimi-Akodu, Special Adviser to the Governor on Environment, told The Journal Nigeria that the practice is common in developed countries and aims to encourage reuse and reduce plastic waste.
“It’s not compulsory. Shoppers are free to bring their own bags from home or their cars,” he said. “What the malls are doing is bridging a gap. If you don’t bring a bag, you can buy one—but it’s entirely optional.”
Akodu explained that similar practices exist in Europe, America, and Asia, where customers are presented with various categories of reusable bags at checkout counters.
“The goal is to change consumer behavior. People are less likely to waste what they pay for. That’s part of building a more sustainable Lagos,” he added.
On the enforcement front, The Journal Nigeria observed that officials from the state’s environmental task force, Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI), raided markets on Lagos Island on Thursday, confiscating banned items such as nylon bags.
The ban targets all single-use plastics below 40 microns, including Styrofoam food containers, plastic straws, disposable cutlery, cups, and lightweight nylon bags. Authorities say the measure is aimed at curbing environmental degradation and promoting eco-conscious living.
The Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to transitioning toward a cleaner, greener city, urging residents and businesses to support the initiative.