Abuja: The French Government has called for global synergy among the countries in Africa and the western world to save the oceans from the dangers of plastic waste. Jean-Fran§ois Hasperue, the Deputy Ambassador, French Embassy in Nigeria, made the call during a plastic waste awareness programme at the French Institute in Abuja. Hasperue emphasized the necessity for a united front as plastic waste has emerged as one of the most pressing environmental crises globally, with oceans suffering the most from this escalating threat.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Hasperue pointed out that the evidence of damage caused by plastic waste, ranging from floating debris to microplastics embedded in marine organisms, has been overwhelming. He elaborated that microplastics consumed by fish in the Lagos lagoon could end up in human food chains worldwide, highlighting the global nature of the issue. A specific focus within the UN conference in Nice is the issue of Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdictions (BBNJ), which addresses a long-standing gap in international cooperation to protect oceanic regions. Hasperue anticipated reaching 60 signatories for ratification by the end of the week, allowing BBNJ implementation from January 1, 2026.
The French Government is actively raising awareness in Nigeria, particularly in universities, as part of a global strategy to build the capacity of students and rally support for local communities. France’s involvement includes hosting the UN Conference on Ocean in Nice and organizing a series of activities in Nigeria, including debates and awareness campaigns throughout June.
Notably, the French Government has organized 11 activities across six Nigerian states to foster awareness and support for local communities. Hasperue emphasized the critical role of the UN Ocean Conference in tackling plastic waste dangers, stating that creating awareness is essential to combat this menace. He stressed the need for better plastic production, recycling, and minimizing its impact on global life, forming part of France’s dual approach to address the issue both globally and locally.
The French Government is also aiding Nigerian universities with plastic recycling initiatives and project funding. A fund of 750,000 euros is allocated to help universities in recycling efforts, including providing micro-plants to Nile University and UNILAG for plastic recycling projects. Additionally, projects are being funded in five different universities.
Sebastien Bede, the Attach© for Scientific and Higher Education Cooperation at the French Embassy, highlighted ongoing cooperation with Nigerian partners to develop and implement solutions to plastic waste. The French Embassy Fund aims to tackle plastic pollution in Nigerian university campuses by equipping UNILAG and Nile University with micro-plants for plastic recycling.