By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) has launched the inception phase of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Child Project 11193, titled “Circular Solutions to Plastic Pollution in Nigeria,”aimed at curbing the country’s growing plastic waste crisis.
Speaking at the launch in Abuja, NESREA Director-General, Professor Innocent Barikor, said Nigeria consumes over 2.5 billion litres of sachet water annually, produced by more than 32,000 manufacturers, contributing to blocked drainages, flooding, and environmental degradation.
He described the five-year project as a transformative intervention built on a circular economy approach, focusing on policy reform, innovation, waste prevention, public-private partnerships, and public awareness.
According to NESREA, the initiative is expected to prevent over 350,000 metric tons of plastic waste, cut toxic emissions, and reduce nearly 1.9 million tons of CO₂ equivalent.
Barikor said NESREA will serve as the national executing agency in collaboration with UNEP and other partners, calling on stakeholders to support the project’s successful implementation.
Also speaking, GEF Senior Environmental Specialist Evelyn Swain, represented by Anna Blanpain, said the project positions Nigeria as a leader in the global fight against plastic pollution, with lessons that will inform policy and investment worldwide.
UNEP Representative Isabella Vanderbeck described the launch as a key milestone under the Plastic Reboot Integrated Programme, noting Nigeria’s growing role in international environmental action.
Representing the Association of Table Water Producers of Nigeria (ATWAP), Mr. Christopher Erefinyo pledged the association’s support, describing the initiative as a landmark effort toward reducing plastic pollution and promoting a cleaner, more sustainable Nigeria.
