Abuja: The United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Mr Mohamed Fall, has reiterated the organisation’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in tackling plastic pollution to strengthen sustainable environmental protection.
Fall made the remarks while delivering a keynote address at a one-day sensitisation campaign themed “Ending Plastic Pollution” on Saturday in Abuja to commemorate World Environment Day 2025.
The event was organised by UN entities, including the UN Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), the UN Development Programme (UNDP), the Nigerian Environmental Society (NES), and other partners.
According to Fall, plastic pollution is at a crisis level.
He noted that the recent passing of the UN resolution to curb plastic pollution marked a historic step toward environmental protection.
“Every piece of plastic that litters our soil or blocks our waterways threatens ecosystems. More dangerous still are microplastics contaminating our food, health, and bodies.
“Across our agencies, the UN supports Nigeria to tackle these challenges by promoting sustainable growth and job creation.
“UNDP is strengthening national and state efforts to promote inclusive models, while UNIDO is investing in eco-friendly industrial solutions, among other initiatives,” he added.
Fall also highlighted the partnership between the UN, Green Hub Africa, and NES, which was increasing advocacy efforts focused on building global treaties to end plastic pollution.
“Ending plastic pollution is not only an environmental imperative; it is a human right to health, dignity, and a planned future,” he said.
Mr Osu Otu, Programme Officer at the UNIDO Regional Office Hub Abuja, decried ineffective waste management, often resulting in greenhouse gas emissions.
“In Nigeria, plastic accounts for 13 per cent of total waste. Proper plastic waste management can boost job creation, private sector investment, and foreign direct investment in the country.
“It will also reduce plastic leakage into the environment,” he stated.
Dr Efegbidiki Okobia, President of the Nigerian Environmental Society, said the organisation had evolved beyond environmental campaigns to achieve meaningful goals.
“There is a gap between separation, collection, and distribution of waste during disposal, which remains challenging.
“Our work involves serious research and engaging responsible stakeholders, which we have done over the years,” Okobia said.
He added that NES’s partnership with Green Hub Africa and the UN Information Centre had helped advance measures to end plastic pollution.