Ogun Govt, NESREA Shut Seven Factories Over Unsafe Practices

The Ogun State Government, in collaboration with the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), has sealed seven battery recycling factories in Ogijo, Sagamu Local Government Area, over lead emissions and other unsafe operational practices.

The action followed repeated non-compliance by the factory operators with the provisions of the National Environmental (Battery Control) Regulations 2024, according to NESREA.

The agency noted that under the regulations, facilities are required to manage Used Lead-Acid Battery (ULAB) slag and base metal residue safely, conduct annual environmental impact assessments, and prioritize the health and safety of staff, including providing Personal Protective Equipment and annual blood lead testing.

The recyclers are also expected to transition to cleaner recycling technologies, engage in pilot projects for slag reuse in bricks and cement raw materials, and maintain responsibility toward their host communities.

Ogun State Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, said the move became imperative to safeguard the health of residents and mitigate the effects of lead emissions. He reassured the public that the government’s actions were preventive measures.

“We are committed to ensuring the health and safety of our citizens. The closure of these facilities is necessary to enforce compliance with environmental standards and protect the surrounding communities,” Oresanya said.

“All factories operating in this axis must adopt best international practices. We will conduct health and process audits of these industries, testing for lead levels in humans, soil, air, and water bodies, and make the findings public,” he added.

In addition to the factory closures, the state has advocated for a temporary ban on the exportation of Lead Ingot. Oresanya, who led a team of experts from the Ministries of Environment, Health, Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA) and NESREA, said the government will interrogate previous tests reported in the media to ensure accuracy and transparency.