Manufacturers say Lagos plastic ban threatens thousands of Jobs

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has raised concerns over the Lagos State government’s plan to ban Single-Use Plastics (SUPs), warning that the move could lead to widespread job losses and negatively affect the economy.

Segun Ajayi-Kadir, Director General of MAN, urged the government to reconsider the decision, which is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

He argued that the ban was introduced without sufficient consultation or credible data and could worsen poverty and unemployment.

Ajayi-Kadir explained that the root problem lies in poor waste management, not the plastics themselves.

He emphasized that banning SUPs without viable alternatives or proper infrastructure would create more harm than good.

He cited a study supported by MAN which revealed that manufacturers across the board fear job losses and restructuring if the ban is enforced.

The study also found that a significant majority of businesses and individuals involved in the plastic value chain rely on SUPs as their main source of income.

Many small businesses use plastic packaging due to its affordability, and most plastic dealers had not received any prior information or support to help them adjust.

Ajayi-Kadir stressed that instead of banning plastics, Nigeria should focus on improving recycling systems to protect jobs and support the petrochemical industry.