By Damilare Adeleye
The Lagos State Commissioner of Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, has clarified that there is no ban on sachet water in the State.
His clarification came on the heel of a viral video showing some individuals bursting sachet water packs at factories and on buses.
The Commissioner, who stated that the enforcement officers in the viral video were not from any Lagos State Government agency, identified them as officials of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
In a statement personally signed by him and issued on Sunday, Wahab added that the actions of the NAFDAC officials were part of an enforcement exercise targeting sachet water that does not comply with itself regulations, and in the interest public health and safety.
While debunking speculation on ban placed on sachet water, the Commissioner added that the Lagos government’s focus remains on effective plastic waste management.
His statement reads, “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 public health and safety.
“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.
“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.
“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.
“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.”
