Lagos, Nigeria – June 2025
The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has raised concerns over the proposed plastic ban by the Lagos State Government, warning that the move could result in widespread job losses and significant economic disruptions if not properly managed.
Speaking in reaction to the government’s plan to phase out single-use plastics in the state, the association cautioned that thousands of workers in the manufacturing sector, especially those involved in plastic production and packaging, could be adversely affected.
According to the association, while it supports environmental sustainability and the fight against pollution, a sudden enforcement of the ban without a clear transition framework could cripple small and medium-scale enterprises and create ripple effects across supply chains.
“The government’s intentions may be noble, but the economic implications must be carefully considered,” a spokesperson for the group stated. “Plastic manufacturing supports hundreds of thousands of jobs directly and indirectly. Without viable alternatives and proper stakeholder engagement, this policy may do more harm than good.”
The association has urged the Lagos State Government to collaborate with industry stakeholders to develop a phased implementation strategy that allows time for innovation, investment in alternatives, and capacity building.
They also called for increased public awareness campaigns and incentives for sustainable packaging solutions as part of a broader waste management reform.
As the debate continues, manufacturers are appealing for inclusive dialogue to ensure environmental goals are achieved without sacrificing livelihoods or undermining the state’s economic ecosystem.
