NESREA, OGUN GOVT SEAL SIX BATTERY RECYCLING PLANTS OVER ENVIRONMENTAL VIOLATIONS

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By Aishat Momoh. O.

The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), in collaboration with the Ogun State Ministry of Environment, on Thursday sealed six recycling facilities in the Ogijo community of Ogun State for failing to comply with the National Environmental (Battery Control) Regulations 2024.

In a statement by NESREA’s Assistant Director of Press, Nwamaka Ejiofor, the agency said the closure followed repeated non-compliance with protocols designed to ensure the safe handling of used lead-acid batteries (ULAB), protect public health, and prevent environmental degradation.

The enforcement action was prompted by growing concerns over unsafe recycling practices that release toxic lead and other heavy metals, posing serious risks to surrounding communities. Ogijo, a major hub for battery recycling, has long been associated with complaints of lead pollution, air contamination and soil degradation.

According to NESREA, operators are required to safely manage ULAB slag and base-metal residue, conduct annual blood lead level testing for staff, and provide adequate protective gear. Facilities must also conduct yearly environmental impact audits on surrounding communities, adopt cleaner recycling technologies, and participate in pilot projects that explore the reuse of slag in cement and brick production.

The clampdown followed extensive assessments and sensitisation campaigns carried out under the Project for Responsible Battery and Metal Recycling.

The agency said more enforcement actions are expected in the coming days.

Thursday’s operation comes just three days after the Federal Government shut two factories True Metals Nigeria Limited and Phoenix Steel Mills Limited along the Ikorodu–Sagamu industrial corridor for “grave violations” of occupational safety standards.

During an unscheduled inspection on Monday, Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, criticised True Metals Nigeria Limited for exposing workers to hazardous lead emissions without protective gear or adequate sanitation.

“That you are giving our people jobs does not warrant putting their lives at risk,” she said. “We cannot say we are creating jobs while we are killing our people. There is no price for life. Every Nigerian deserves a safe and dignified working environment.”

NESREA reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding environmental health and ensuring strict compliance with national standards.