Minister Seeks Strong Laws Against Waste Pollution

The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev has proposed the reinforcement of Nigeria’s legal framework for plastic waste pollution.

He made the call on Tuesday, November 28, in Lagos during the third Nigerian Blue Economy Discovery Conference, with the theme, “Discovering Nigeria’s Own Sustainable Blue Economy.”

The minister highlighted that improper waste management practices nationwide are fueled by insufficient enforcement tactics, procedures, and a lack of legislation.

The minister said it is clear that inadequate enforcement tactics, procedures, and lack of legislation are what promote improper waste management practices nationwide.

Represented by the managing director, of Ogun-Osun River Basin Authority, Olufemi Odumosu, Utsev, gave insights into the role of the ministry in mitigating the plastic waste phenomenon, a danger to the health of our oceans, and the resources within it.

He explained that the ministry would encourage and enlighten local communities and people to take coordinated action to diminish the pollution induced by plastic waste.

In addition, he mentioned that increased investment in research and innovation in the areas of plastic recycling, reducing reuse, and avoiding disposal in aquatic bodies would be championed.

He stated: “We will also provide policymakers, manufacturers, and consumers with the evidence needed to implement technological, behavioural, and policy solutions to address the plastic waste phenomenon that is a danger to the health of our oceans and the resources within it.

“Collectively, by taking bold, integrated actions that address water pollution, we can help build a sustainable ocean economy that can expand economic opportunities and improve the health and prosperity of millions of lives.”

According to the minister, inadequate waste management systems and a general disregard for natural ecosystems are to blame for the proliferation of single-use plastics, which include grocery bags, bottles, caps, food wrappers, and straws.

He added that to effectively combat the issue of plastic waste, the citizens, academics, legislators, and other stakeholders must collaborate to tackle its complexity and diversity.