The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency has shut down the Sunseed Oil facility located in Zaria, Kaduna State, over alleged air pollution linked to excessive industrial emissions.
The development was disclosed in a press statement issued on Tuesday and signed by the agency’s Assistant Director of Press, Nwamaka Ejiofor.
According to the statement, the action followed complaints of persistent air pollution from the facility, which was said to be operating in clear violation of the National Environmental (Air Quality Control) Regulations that mandate the installation of pollution abatement equipment and the adoption of cleaner production processes.
“The severity of the emissions, which posed an immediate threat to the surrounding ecosystem and the health of nearby residents, led to the immediate closure of the facility.
“This enforcement action is in line with the commitment of NESREA to ensure industrial compliance and the protection of the public from the hazardous effects of unregulated industrial discharges (air pollutants and effluents).
“The Director General of NESREA, Prof. Innocent Barikor, warns industrial operators to ensure full compliance with National Environmental Regulations and avoid actions that impact negatively on the health of the citizens and the environment,” it concluded.
NESREA noted that excessive industrial air emissions have become a growing concern nationwide, particularly in industrial areas located close to residential communities, where residents are more exposed to health risks.
The agency explained that such emissions are associated with respiratory illnesses, environmental degradation and a general decline in the quality of life of affected communities.
Under existing regulations, industries are required to install functional pollution control systems, embrace cleaner technologies and regularly monitor their emissions to ensure they fall within approved limits.
NESREA warned that defaulting facilities would continue to face sanctions, including closure, fines and possible prosecution, as it intensifies enforcement of Nigeria’s environmental laws in line with its mandate under the NESREA Act of 2007.