By Habeeb Ibrahim
The Lagos State Government has denied allegations of banning sachet water, clarifying its stance on plastic waste management and addressing concerns raised by a viral video showing individuals bursting sachet water packs at factories and on buses.
In a statement issued by Tokunbo Wahab, the Honourable Commissioner for the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, it was revealed that the individuals seen in the video are enforcement officers from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). Their actions were part of a targeted enforcement exercise aimed at ensuring compliance with NAFDAC regulations for public health and safety.
Wahab emphasized that Lagos State has no plans to ban sachet water and is focused on sustainable and inclusive strategies for managing plastic waste.
“Our priority remains effective plastic waste management,” the statement read. “As part of our commitment, we are implementing mandatory Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for producers of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), sachets, and carrier bags of no less than 40 microns.”
The government is introducing a Plastic Waste Management Fund in collaboration with Producers and Producer Responsibility Organizations (PROs). This fund, to be jointly managed and financed by contributions from producers and major importers, will address the increasing challenges of plastic waste in Lagos State.
Wahab also highlighted recent efforts, including the Engagement Workshop held on October 3, 2024, where stakeholders discussed sustainable solutions to plastic pollution.
Reassuring Lagosians, the Ministry urged the public to disregard any misinformation suggesting a sachet water ban. “We remain committed to fostering dialogue and working collaboratively with all stakeholders to ensure sustainable waste management while supporting the economic interests of Lagosians,” Wahab stated.
