As countries across the globe commemorated World Environment Day, the ECOWAS Commission and Nigeria’s Ministry of Environment partnered to draw attention to the pressing issue of plastic pollution throughout West Africa.
The celebration, which took place on Tuesday in Abuja, embraced this year’s theme, “Together, We Can Beat Plastic Pollution.” The event emphasized the importance of regional unity, environmental accountability, and the need for concrete action beyond mere rhetoric.
Representing the ECOWAS Commission, the Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, Massandje Toure-Litse, delivered a goodwill message, underlining the importance of the event within the context of ECOWAS’s Jubilee Year, which celebrates five decades of regional cooperation.
“It is fitting that in this landmark year, we reaffirm our commitment to a clean, resilient, and sustainable environment for future generations.”
“Plastic pollution is not only a global menace but a regional and national crisis.
“There is growing recognition that plastic pollution is a transboundary problem that requires a coordinated regional response,” Toure-Litse said.
Citing World Bank data, Yao Bernard Koffi, Acting Director of Environment and Natural Resources representing the commissioner, stated that West Africa generates approximately eight million metric tonnes of plastic waste each year, with over 80 percent mismanaged, leading to severe impacts on human health, marine ecosystems, and economic stability.
To combat this issue, she highlighted that ECOWAS introduced a regional plastic management regulation in 2023, encouraging member states to align their laws and adopt effective practices.
“The ECOWAS Commission is supporting Member States to harmonise environmental standards and promote green industrialisation,” she said.
She recognized promising regional efforts, noting Ghana and Nigeria’s progress in circular economy initiatives, as well as Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire’s implementation of plastic bans and producer responsibility programs.
However, Toure-Litse emphasized the need for greater regional collaboration.
“Tackling plastic pollution is a test of our resolve to act together as governments, private sector actors, civil society, and citizens,” the commissioner stated.
She urged stakeholders to fund eco-innovation, back community-driven waste initiatives, enforce environmental regulations, and support youth-led climate efforts.
“The ECOWAS commission stands ready to work side-by-side with Nigeria and all partners to beat plastic pollution not tomorrow, but today,” she concluded.
At the event, Minister of Environment Balarabe Lawal addressed attendees with a sense of urgency and reflection, emphasizing the environmental, health, and economic challenges posed by plastic waste.
“Plastic pollution is a very serious issue that we must confront, and we must fight honestly.
“Linked to plastic pollution is chemical pollution. Climate change may be the most visible threat, but chemical waste is equally insidious and must also be addressed,” Lawal declared.
Lawal vividly described how improper waste disposal exacerbates flooding in Nigerian cities.
“Every minute, plastic waste is being dumped in our oceans, rivers, and land systems. We are blocking waterways, and that leads to flooding. Water must find its way. If you obstruct it, it will pass through your homes, your farms, your schools,” he said.
In a direct appeal to architects, he noted, “You are part of our problem. You design and approve construction on waterways. That must stop if we are serious about ending flooding.”
Lawal reaffirmed the federal government’s dedication, highlighting initiatives under the Renewed Hope Agenda, such as the National Policy on Plastic Waste Management and the Extended Producer Responsibility Programme.
The minister highlighted that proactive measures are being implemented to combat pollution comprehensively.
“Reduce, reuse, recycle, these three R’s are not just slogans. They are our path forward,” the minister stated.
Lawal pointed to the financial benefits of recycling, referencing a recent trip to Ghana where young people are gaining employment through plastic collection initiatives.
“This catastrophe of pollution can be turned into a resource. It can be good business for our youth,” he said.
He also stressed the importance of working together across government ministries, private sectors, and educational institutions to promote environmental awareness.
“We must create environmental clubs in schools. We must reach the youth. They have more years to live on this planet than us and they must be equipped to protect it.”
Looking back on efforts made and looking ahead to future actions, Lawal urged every Nigerian to embrace a united sense of duty.
“Throughout history, we have searched for alternatives to earth. But till today, there is none. We must protect what we have.
“Let this day serve as a wake-up call. Let us become ambassadors of environmental stewardship.
“Together, let us walk toward a Nigeria where our waterways are clean, our streets are free of plastic waste, and our ecosystems are protected for generations yet to come,” Lawal added.
The Ministry of Environment, in partnership with ECOWAS @50, hosted the event.
The gathering brought together top government officials, civil society groups, youth organisations, and international partners, all affirming a united front in the fight against plastic pollution—one of the region’s most urgent environmental issues.
