Residents and traders in Lagos are deeply worried about plastic waste’s economic and health effects. Blocked drainage systems from careless disposal are leading to worse flooding, damaging goods, and disrupting businesses.
After rainstorms, the streets and markets are often littered with empty plastic bottles, nylon bags, and takeaway packs. These items accumulate in gutters, causing water to overflow into shops. Mrs. Taiwo Adeyemi, a vendor at Oshodi Market, shared how regular floods surround her shop due to plastics blocking the drains. “We struggle to keep our area clean,” she said.
Despite a ban on single-use plastics, traders still rely on them. Customers often prefer affordable nylon bags over pricier, eco-friendly options. “The alternatives cost too much,” Mrs. Adeyemi noted.
Residents like Miss Chisom Benson from Ikeja are noticing the health risks too. She said stagnant water from blocked drains has led to more mosquitoes and foul odors in the area. “It stays for days. Mosquitoes and bad smells have become part of our lives,” she mentioned.
Food vendors also feel the impact. Mrs. Aribike from Agege Market stated, “Customers often complain about the dirty surroundings.” Many still use cheap styrofoam and nylon bags due to their affordability, despite the health risks posed by poor sanitation.
Mr. Power Salami, a bus driver, explained how flooding can worsen traffic. “When it rains, the roads get jammed because of overflowing gutters,” he said. Low-income communities express concerns when plastic waste is burned, creating harmful smoke. “It affects everyone, especially kids,” said Madam Mutiat from Agege.
Recurring malaria cases are another concern. Mrs. Ibukun Momodu, a mother, linked stagnant water and plastic waste to frequent mosquito outbreaks. “We treat malaria almost every month because of it,” she explained.
Many residents are calling for stricter enforcement of the plastic ban. They urge supermarkets to replace nylon bags with reusable or paper options.
Recent data shows Nigeria produces over 2.5 million tonnes of plastic waste each year, with around 70% ending up in landfills, water bodies, and drainage systems. In Lagos alone, estimates suggest 50 to 60 million sachet water bags are discarded daily.
Environmental advocate Mr. Friday Oku blames the worsening situation on poor policy enforcement and a lack of public awareness about waste separation. “The government needs to rethink its waste strategy and involve informal waste workers,” he said. He believes these workers could help recover recyclables before waste reaches dump sites.
In summary, tackling plastic waste in Lagos is vital for health and economic stability. The community needs better support in managing waste and stronger policies to protect both people and the environment.
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Lagos residents,Plastic waste
