The Oyo State House of Assembly has commenced legislative action to prohibit the production, importation, distribution, sale, and use of single-use plastics, marking a major step toward tackling environmental pollution and promoting sustainable practices across the state.
The proposed legislation, titled the Oyo State Single-Use Plastics Prohibition (SUPs) Bill, 2026, passed its first reading during a plenary session presided over by the Speaker, Adebo Ogundoyin. The bill is jointly sponsored by the Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, Ecology and Water Resources, Olorunpoto Cephas Rahaman, the Speaker, and the Leader of the House, Sanjo Adedoyin.
The proposed law is designed to address the growing environmental threat posed by plastic waste, which has contributed significantly to blocked drainage systems, soil degradation, flooding, and other ecological challenges across the state. Lawmakers say the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to safeguarding public health, protecting natural ecosystems, and ensuring a cleaner environment for present and future generations.
Speaking during the plenary, Rahaman emphasized the urgency of the legislation, describing it as a necessary response to the environmental dangers associated with widespread plastic use. He noted that plastic waste has become a major contributor to environmental degradation and warned that failure to act decisively could worsen ecological and public health risks.
According to the provisions of the bill, the ban will cover a wide range of commonly used single-use plastic products. These include plastic shopping bags, sachet water packaging, plastic straws, disposable cutlery, plastic cups and plates, and Styrofoam containers frequently used in food and beverage packaging. The bill also proposes restrictions on the use of plastic straws, cutlery, and similar disposable plastic items in restaurants, eateries, event centres, and other public facilities.
To ensure a smooth and practical transition, the proposed law provides for a 12-month phase-out period after its eventual passage and commencement. During this period, the government will intensify public awareness campaigns, sensitisation programmes, and stakeholder engagement initiatives aimed at encouraging behavioural change and promoting environmentally friendly alternatives.
Speaker Ogundoyin described the bill as a bold and forward-looking initiative aligned with global environmental sustainability standards. He stated that the legislation is intended to shift the state from a culture of indiscriminate disposal toward responsible consumption and sustainable waste management practices.
He explained that the transition period would give manufacturers, distributors, business owners, and consumers sufficient time to adjust and adopt biodegradable and eco-friendly alternatives. He also noted that the move would encourage innovation in sustainable packaging while creating opportunities for businesses producing environmentally safe materials.
The bill assigns enforcement responsibility to the Oyo State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, which will be empowered to establish a specialized Task Force on Plastic Pollution Control. The task force will be responsible for monitoring compliance, enforcing regulations, and ensuring adherence to the provisions of the law once it comes into effect.
Lawmakers expressed optimism that the proposed ban would significantly reduce plastic pollution, improve environmental sanitation, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents. They also noted that the legislation aligns with broader national and global efforts to combat plastic pollution, protect ecosystems, and promote sustainable development.
If passed into law, the bill is expected to position Oyo State among leading subnational governments taking proactive measures to address plastic waste and environmental sustainability challenges.
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