Lagos state dismisses reports of sachet water ban

Lagos state dismisses reports of sachet water ban

The Lagos State Government has dismissed reports circulating on social media about a purported ban on sachet water in the state.

In a statement issued on Sunday by the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, the government emphasized its focus on sustainable waste management, not prohibitive measures.

The clarification follows a viral video showing individuals bursting sachet water packs in factories and on buses, which sparked concerns among residents and businesses.

According to Wahab, investigations revealed that the individuals involved were enforcement officers from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).

He added that their actions were part of a regulatory enforcement exercise targeting non-compliant sachet water products, undertaken to safeguard public health.

Wahab reiterated that the government has no intention of banning sachet water. Instead, Lagos is implementing measures to address the environmental challenges posed by plastic waste.

He said, “My attention has been drawn to a viral video showing some individuals bursting sachet water packs at factories and on buses. I wish to categorically state that these individuals are not enforcement officers from any Lagos State Government agency or the Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources.

“Upon investigation, it was confirmed that the individuals in question are enforcement officers from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). Their actions are part of an enforcement exercise targeting sachet water that does not comply with NAFDAC regulations, and in the interest (of) public health and safety.

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“As outlined in the Ministry’s release following the Engagement Workshop held on October 3, 2024, we remain committed to addressing plastic waste through sustainable and inclusive measures.”

As part of its environmental sustainability initiatives, Wahab highlighted that the state government is introducing mandatory Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for manufacturers of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), sachets, and plastic bags.

Producers and importers will contribute to a newly established Plastic Waste Management Fund, jointly managed by stakeholders, to tackle the rising challenges of plastic waste.

“It is important to emphasize that Lagos State has not banned sachet water and does not have plans to do so. Our focus remains on effective plastic waste management. 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,” Wahab stated.

“To further support this initiative, the Lagos State Government, in collaboration with Producers and Producer Responsibility Organizations (PROs), is establishing a Plastic Waste Management Fund. This fund will be financed by contributions from producers and major importers, and it will be jointly managed to address the growing challenges of plastic waste in the State,”

The commissioner urged Lagosians to disregard any misinformation about a sachet water ban.

“Members of the public should disregard any misinformation suggesting a ban on sachet water in Lagos State. The Ministry is fully committed to fostering dialogue and working collaboratively with all stakeholders to ensure sustainable waste management while supporting the economic interests of Lagosians,” he added.

Lagos state dismisses reports of sachet water ban