The Lagos State Government denied rumors of a sachet water ban, clarifying that it remains committed to managing plastic waste through sustainable measures.
Tokunbo Wahab, Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, addressed the issue in a statement shared via his X (formerly Twitter) handle on Sunday.
His response followed a viral video showing individuals destroying sachet water packs in factories and on buses, which sparked speculation of a government-imposed ban.
Wahab dismissed the claims, stating, “I wish to categorically state that these individuals are not enforcement officers from any Lagos State Government agency or the Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources.”
The commissioner revealed that the individuals in the video were enforcement officers from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
Their actions targeted sachet water that failed to meet regulatory standards to protect public health.
“It is important to emphasize that Lagos State has not banned sachet water and does not have plans to do so,” Wahab reiterated.
“Our focus remains on effective plastic waste management,” he continued.
The state government has outlined plans to address plastic pollution, including implementing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for producers of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), sachets, and carrier bags of at least 40 microns.
Additionally, Lagos State is collaborating with Producers and Producer Responsibility Organisations (PROs) to establish a Plastic Waste Management Fund.
The fund, jointly managed by stakeholders, will be financed through contributions from producers and major importers to tackle plastic waste challenges.
Wahab highlighted these initiatives in a statement following an Engagement Workshop held on October 3, 2024, as part of the administration’s long-term environmental strategy.
The commissioner urged residents to disregard misinformation about a sachet water ban.
He also clarified that while the state’s ban on single-use plastics and Styrofoam, effective January 2025, remains in place, it does not extend to sachet water and PET bottles.
“The Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu-led administration is committed to sustainable and inclusive waste management policies that address environmental challenges without compromising public access to essential products,” Wahab added.
The Lagos State Government continues to prioritize public health and environmental sustainability as it works toward a cleaner and more eco-friendly future.
