By Progress Godfrey

ABUJA – The Go Green Nigeria Foundation has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to strengthen enforcement against single-use plastic bags to curb pollution and protect public health.

The Chief Executive Officer of the foundation, Dr John Babington Chibunna, made the call on Friday during an awareness walk at Utako Market and Utako Village Market in Abuja to mark the 2026 International Plastic Bag Free Day.

He said plastic bags continue to block drainage systems, worsen flooding and pollute the environment, while breaking down into microplastics that threaten food safety and human health.

Chibunna also appealed to Nigerians to reject single use plastic bags and switch to reusable alternatives, calling on partners and donors to support the foundation’s Green Market Initiative, which aims to distribute 500,000 biodegradable cloth bags to market women across major cities.

He said, “We urge the Presidency to fast-track strict enforcement of single-use plastic regulations and actively incentivize local industries shifting toward eco-friendly manufacturing.

“Go Green Nigeria Foundation stands ready to work hand-in-hand with federal and state environmental agencies. We are on the ground, but we need the political will and the regulatory teeth that only the executive arms of government can provide to truly shift the tide.”

The foundation also appealed for greater investment in sustainable alternatives, saying government, businesses and citizens all have a role to play in reducing plastic waste.

He urged Nigerians to choose sustainability over convenience, expressing hope that 2026 would mark a turning point in the country’s efforts to reduce plastic pollution and build a cleaner environment for future generations.

On his part, Chairman of the Utako Village market, Mr Abdullahi Abubakar, commended the foundation for championing the initiative. He promised to continue to educate business owners on the need to adopt reusable bags, to curb pollution.