Nigeria moves from voluntary compliance to mandatory enforcement as NESREA pushes circular economy and plastic waste reduction.
The Federal Government will begin enforcing the Producer Pays Principle (PPP) in the beverages and packaging sector to promote circular economy and environmental sustainability. The announcement was made by Prof. Innocent Barikor, DG of NESREA, at a stakeholders’ workshop in Lagos.
The initiative, under the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Programme, shifts from voluntary compliance to mandatory enforcement before the end of 2026. Producers, importers, and brand owners will now be legally responsible for the full lifecycle of their products—from production to disposal, including collection and recycling.
Barikor emphasized that the move is not a tax but an opportunity for innovation, cost reduction, job creation, and global brand enhancement. The program aligns with Sustainable Development Goals and Nigeria’s drive toward plastic waste control and a circular economy.
The workshop highlighted collaboration with Food Beverage Recycling Alliance (FBRA), recyclers, and international partners like Japan and UNEP to support the sector’s transition. NESREA urged producers to register and comply with clear annual targets for recycling and reporting standards.
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