The Go Green Nigeria Foundation has called on the Federal Government to strengthen the enforcement of regulations on single-use plastics.
It said plastic pollution is a growing environmental threat that requires urgent national action.
The foundation made the call on Friday in Abuja during an event to commemorate the 2026 International Plastic Bag Free Day.
Speaking at the event, Dr John-Babington Chibunna, Convener of the programme, said Nigeria was facing severe environmental consequences from the widespread use and improper disposal of plastic bags.
According to him, clogged drainage systems, polluted waterways and the increasing presence of microplastics show that the country can no longer treat plastic pollution as a minor environmental issue.
“Millions of single-use plastic bags are distributed across Nigeria daily, used briefly and discarded, with many ending up in gutters and waterways, contributing to urban flooding and long-term environmental degradation.
“We are not gathered merely to celebrate an environmental campaign. We are here because our drainage systems are choking, our oceans are crying out, and our communities are paying the price for a convenience that lasts only minutes but pollutes our land for centuries,” he said.
Chibunna urged the Federal Government to align environmental protection efforts with the objectives of the Renewed Hope Agenda, saying sustainable development could not be achieved while plastic pollution continued to threaten public health, infrastructure and economic resilience.
He called on President Bola Tinubu to fast-track the strict enforcement of regulations on single-use plastics while supporting industries transitioning to environmentally friendly manufacturing.
“We are already working within communities, but meaningful progress depends on the political will and regulatory strength that only government can provide to deliver lasting environmental change.
“Grassroots organisations are prepared to support government efforts but require stronger policy implementation and effective regulatory enforcement.
“Let 2026 be remembered as the year Nigeria chose sustainability over convenience, decisive action over apathy, and a cleaner, greener future for generations yet unborn,” he said.
Also speaking, the Chairman of Utako Market, Abdullahi Abubakar, commended the foundation for the initiative and encouraged traders and residents to reduce their dependence on disposable plastic bags by adopting reusable alternatives.
“It is a great initiative. On my part, and within my capacity, I promise to ensure that used plastic bags are properly disposed of.
“I will also encourage traders in the market to adopt reusable bags to promote and achieve a cleaner, safer environment for all of us,” he said.
