Lagos State has reaffirmed its decision to prohibit the use of styrofoam, asserting that the move was driven by scientific evidence, environmental responsibility, and public health considerations.
Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab, made the clarification on Thursday through his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle, where he dismissed claims suggesting the policy was politically motivated.
“Our decision to ban styrofoam was unpopular, but necessary. We stood on irrefutable research: this material clogs drains, contaminates our water, and poisons our food chain. It wasn’t politics, it was public health.
“To every Lagosian who adapted: Thank you. You’ve helped reduce flooding and protect our children’s future,” Wahab stated.
He expressed appreciation to residents for embracing the ban and transitioning to safer alternatives, attributing the reduced flood incidents during the 2025 rainy season to collective compliance with the policy.
The Commissioner also recognised the contribution of comedian @_Taaooma, who has used humour to raise awareness about the environmental and health risks associated with styrofoam usage. Wahab described her public engagement as an example of how advocacy can support government policy in practical and relatable ways.
The restriction on single-use plastics and styrofoam was formally declared in January 2024, after prolonged advocacy by environmental scientists, civil society groups, and public health campaigners.
Wahab maintained that safeguarding the environment requires collaboration between authorities and the public, describing such cooperation as vital to sustaining meaningful change.
