Nigeria unveils new regulations to control plastic waste pollution

The Nigerian Federal Government has unveiled the National Environmental (Plastic Waste Control) Regulations, 2026, a framework designed to manage plastic waste from production through to final disposal. The regulations aim to promote a circular economy and hold actors across the plastics value chain—including producers, importers, and retailers—accountable for the lifecycle of plastic products.

Nigeria generates approximately 2.5 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, much of which contributes to flooding, blocked drainage systems, and marine pollution. Under the new framework, the use of banned toxic chemicals in plastic production will be treated as a criminal offense, and plastic shopping bags below 80 microns in thickness will be regulated.

A House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee has recommended a phased transition to any single-use plastic ban to prevent job losses and supply-chain disruptions. The committee suggested implementing a ‘Green Tax’ and strengthening Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) obligations to fund recycling infrastructure. While the government seeks enforceable action, industry groups like the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria have proposed a gradual phase-out period of up to 14 years to allow businesses to adapt.