The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) has advocated for a gradual transition from single-use plastics to protect the economy while addressing environmental pollution.
The Agency made this submission on Thursday during a public hearing organized by the House of Representatives Ad-hoc Committee on Preparedness for the Single-Use Plastic Ban in Nigeria, held at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja.
Director-General of NESREA, Prof. Innocent Barikor, represented by the Director of Inspection and Enforcement, Dr. Nenpomigyi Christopher Beka, argued that a phased, evidence-based transition is superior to an abrupt ban. He noted that a gradual approach would ensure continued access to water, protect jobs, and maintain economic stability.
Prof. Barikor stated that the Agency’s proposed timeline aims for a full circular economy transition by 2030, integrating efforts from national and subnational governments, the private sector, civil society, and academia.
In the short term, the DG revealed that the Agency is on the verge of gazetting the National Environmental (Plastic Waste Control) Regulations 2026. He added that NESREA is already implementing the National Guidelines for Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for Packaging (Plastics) 2025 and collaborating with various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to implement a ban on single-use plastics within federal offices nationwide.
“NESREA has installed refill and reuse systems at its headquarters with the intention of implementing the same model across the country,” Barikor said. He also highlighted the GEF-funded “Plastic Reboot-Nigeria” project, which aims to reduce plastic sachet consumption while ensuring safe drinking water access.
Engr. (Dr.) Bahijjahtu Abubakar, Director of Pollution Control and Environmental Health at the Federal Ministry of Environment, supported the call for a gradual approach. She recommended the immediate publication of a priority list of plastic items targeted for phase-out based on environmental harm and the availability of alternatives. She further stressed the need for grants and technical assistance to help local manufacturers pivot to sustainable materials.
Earlier, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, represented by Deputy Chief Whip, Hon. Isiaka Ibrahim, noted that while plastic pollution demands urgent action, the National Assembly is committed to a structured transition.
“We recognize that the plastics industry is a significant employer of labor, from large manufacturers to informal waste pickers and small-scale vendors,” the Speaker stated.
Chairman of the Ad-hoc Committee, Hon. Terseer Ugbor, reaffirmed that the committee’s mission is to ensure an orderly and equitable transition that safeguards both the environment and the Nigerian economy.
