Member representing South East and Chairman Committee on Security , Climate Change & Special Interventions North East Development Commissions Sam Onuigbo, has called for a concerted efforts to end plastic pollution in Nigeria.
Speaking on the occasion of this years World Earth Day with the theme “Plastics vs Planet,” he said the day is a United Nation’s principal vehicle for encouraging awareness and positive action for the protection of the environment.
He said this year’s theme, calls on people to effect changes in their daily lives to reduce the heavy burden of plastic pollution on environment and human health.
The former lawmaker emphasized the need for universal action to combat the adverse effects of plastic waste on ecosystems and human health.
Dr Onuigbo maintained that over-reliance on plastics as a major environmental challenge, especially considering the pollution that comes with badly managed plastic waste.
“The statistics about plastic pollution are alarming. Indeed, it is estimated that a total of 500 billion plastic bags are used every year around the world; and that 13 million tons of plastic leak into the ocean, including the plastic bags that we use and throw every day.
“This plastic waste is often thrown away in the rivers, seas and oceans, and contributes to fill ocean bottoms or float on the water surface,” he said.
Dr. Onuigbo said Nigeria’s commitment to banning single-use plastics, particularly highlighted by Lagos State’s recent measures, underscores the country’s dedication to environmental conservation.
He urged government, civil society, private sector, and community leaders to implement policies and education programs aimed at phasing out plastic usage.
He also emphasized the collective responsibility to protect the planet for future generations.
“Beating plastic pollution and transitioning to sustainable waste management practices requires a strong enabling environment involving all stakeholders including policy-makers, informal and formal waste and resource management actors as well as civil society organizations,” he said.
By Dare Akogun
