Nigeria News (Standard)
Manufacturers Association Urges Suspension of Single-Use Plastic Ban in Lagos, Warns of Job Losses
MAN calls on NESREA to implement existing roadmap, saying abrupt ban threatens thousands of jobs and investments
MAN calls on NESREA to implement existing roadmap, saying abrupt ban threatens thousands of jobs and investments
The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has urged the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) to suspend the proposed ban on single-use plastic production in Lagos State, warning that the move could disrupt industrial operations and threaten thousands of jobs. The appeal was made public on Sunday, following NESREA’s plan to enforce new regulations targeting plastics below 80 microns in thickness.
According to details released by MAN, the proposed National Environmental (Plastic Waste Control) Regulations would prohibit the production and use of single-use plastics under 80 microns and impose taxes on shopping bags between 30 and 50 microns. The Eleventh Schedule of the regulation lists a broad range of restricted products. MAN Director-General, Segun Ajayi-Kadir, described the policy as premature and lacking sufficient empirical justification, noting that immediate implementation could undermine existing investments in Nigeria’s plastics value chain.
The issue has gained prominence as plastic pollution continues to affect urban centres like Lagos, with clogged drainage systems frequently blamed for flooding during rainy season. However, industry stakeholders argue that an abrupt ban will not address environmental concerns without a comprehensive waste management framework. “We are not against efforts to tackle plastic waste, but sudden restrictions will destabilise manufacturers and threaten both direct and indirect employment,” Ajayi-Kadir stated in a written statement.
NESREA has defended its proposal as part of a wider strategy to align Nigeria with global best practices on environmental sustainability. Agency officials say the measures are designed to encourage circular economy principles and reduce long-term environmental risks. Still, MAN insists government should focus on implementing the existing national roadmap for plastic waste management rather than introducing new restrictions without adequate consultation.
Ajayi-Kadir called for broader stakeholder engagement and phased interventions that allow manufacturers time to adapt their processes. He urged government agencies to prioritise enforcement of current guidelines and invest in recycling infrastructure before considering outright bans. As at press time, NESREA had not issued a formal response to MAN’s position.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Lagos Residents Embrace Perfume as Status Symbol, Redefining Everyday Luxury
Fragrance sales surge in Lagos as consumers seek scents that match lifestyle needs and withstand city conditions
Fragrance sales surge in Lagos as consumers seek scents that match lifestyle needs and withstand city conditions
Perfume shopping in Lagos has taken on new significance, with residents now viewing fragrance as an essential part of daily self-expression and status. On a recent busy weekend in the city, shoppers could be seen searching for scents tailored to different needs—softer fragrances suitable for office environments, bolder options for social events like weddings, and long-lasting products designed to endure Lagos traffic and heat.
The shift highlights a growing trend where fragrance has moved beyond its traditional role of personal hygiene to become a marker of sophistication and individual taste. Retailers report that customers are no longer satisfied with generic products; instead, they are demanding perfumes that reflect their personality and can stand up to the challenges of the Nigerian climate.
Industry observers note that this trend speaks to broader changes in how Nigerians perceive luxury. With increasing awareness about global brands and local alternatives alike, perfume is now seen not just as an accessory but as a daily essential—one that signals class and attention to detail. The demand cuts across age groups and income brackets, showing that personal grooming is now intertwined with self-worth and public perception.
While official sales figures were not disclosed, store owners in Lagos say demand continues to rise, especially among young professionals and socialites who value both quality and presentation. As fragrance becomes more embedded in Nigerian culture, experts predict further growth in the sector, with local entrepreneurs also entering the market alongside established international brands.
The evolving fragrance market underscores how Nigerians are redefining luxury on their own terms—prioritising practicality, resilience, and personal identity over conspicuous consumption. As these preferences take root, industry stakeholders expect continued innovation to meet the complex expectations of Nigeria’s increasingly discerning consumers.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Lagos Set to Host Black African History Awards as Sports Icons Take Spotlight
Event organisers urge government and private sector support to honour global Black excellence and inspire Nigerian youth
Event organisers urge government and private sector support to honour global Black excellence and inspire Nigerian youth
Lagos State will host the maiden edition of the Black African History Global Iconic Awards (BAHGIA) on July 5, 2026, with organisers highlighting sports, youth empowerment, and the celebration of African achievement as central themes. The announcement was made by Ambassador Lovethpatra Ekufu, President of BAHGIA and a former Nigerian kickboxing and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) champion.
The awards ceremony, scheduled for Lagos, is designed to recognise outstanding Africans and people of African descent who have made significant contributions in sports and other fields but remain under-celebrated on the global stage. Organisers have called on government agencies, corporate organisations, and development partners to support the initiative, describing it as a unique platform to spotlight African excellence.
Speaking on behalf of the organisers, Ekufu explained that the vision behind BAHGIA is to showcase stories of successful Africans whose achievements can inspire the next generation. “We discovered that Black people across the world are under-celebrated despite their outstanding contributions. This award is designed to…” she said.
The event comes at a time when calls for greater recognition of African achievements in sports and beyond have gained momentum both locally and internationally. Organisers believe that celebrating these icons will not only boost national pride but also encourage young Nigerians to pursue excellence in their chosen fields.
With preparations underway for the July ceremony, stakeholders are expected to rally around the project to ensure its success. Organisers say they will continue engaging relevant authorities and potential sponsors in the lead-up to the awards night.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Nnamdi Kanu, Former Ally Announce Rival Leadership in IPOB Amidst Fresh Dispute
Conflicting claims over Indigenous People of Biafra’s top post spark confusion among supporters and raise fresh questions about succession
Conflicting claims over Indigenous People of Biafra’s top post spark confusion among supporters and raise fresh questions about succession
A fresh leadership tussle has erupted within the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) as its detained leader, Nnamdi Kanu, and a former close ally have separately announced changes to the group’s top hierarchy. The development, which unfolded on Friday, has thrown IPOB’s command structure into uncertainty, especially across its strongholds in the South-East.
The disagreement began when Nnamdi Kanu, who remains in detention facing trial by the federal government, reportedly issued a directive replacing certain key officers within IPOB. Shortly after, a prominent former disciple of Kanu released a contradictory statement claiming to have assumed leadership of the group and announcing an alternative set of appointments.
This open rift marks one of the most public succession disputes within IPOB since Kanu’s arrest and ongoing trial on charges related to treasonable felony. The situation has heightened anxiety among members and observers about the direction of the separatist movement at a time when security agencies are maintaining a heavy presence across several South-East states.
Neither side has released detailed explanations for their actions. However, supporters loyal to Kanu insist he remains the authentic leader regardless of his incarceration. Meanwhile, followers of the former disciple argue that decisive action was needed to keep IPOB operational given Kanu’s prolonged absence from direct leadership.
The federal government has not issued an official statement regarding the latest leadership crisis. Political analysts note that internal disputes could affect IPOB’s influence and operational capacity in coming months. Many South-East residents are watching closely for possible fallout or further security clampdowns as tensions persist.
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