By Awyetu Asabe Hope
The Kwara State Government has issued a strong warning to residents and organisations against noise pollution, stressing that violators will face legal sanctions.
The directive comes after rising complaints from various communities across the state about the increasing levels of noise.
On Tuesday, the Commissioner for Environment, Hajia Nafisat Musa Buge, addressed the issue and reminded the public of the state’s strict noise regulations.
In a statement issued by the Press Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Muritala Shakirat, Buge emphasised that there are clearly defined noise limits, both during the day and at night, which must not be exceeded.
“It is imperative that all residents are aware that there are acceptable noise levels in Kwara State,” Buge said.
Any individual or organisation that exceeds these limits will be treated as an offender and penalised accordingly.
We are committed to enforcing these standards to ensure the well-being of our residents.
The commissioner highlighted that excessive noise can have serious health consequences, including stress, hearing loss, and sleep disturbances. As such, she called for heightened awareness and compliance with noise regulations, especially in light of the ongoing Ramadan period and the upcoming Eid celebrations, which tend to bring about increased nighttime religious and social activities.
“We have received numerous complaints from residents who have been affected by the excessive noise in their communities.
It is not just an inconvenience; it’s a health hazard.
We urge the public, particularly those involved in late-night religious and social gatherings, to be mindful of the noise they generate,” Buge said.
She went on to emphasise that residents must adhere to the state’s approved noise levels: 55 decibels during the day and 40 decibels at night.
This is in line with global standards aimed at preventing noise-related health issues and promoting a peaceful living environment for everyone.
Furthermore, the commissioner reassured the public that the state’s enforcement officers are fully equipped and available to guide individuals and organisations on how to comply with the regulations.
Our officers are accessible and ready to assist in regulating noise levels, especially in public spaces and places of worship, to ensure operators do not violate the law,” she said.
Buge also suggested that businesses and organisations that generate high levels of noise should consider installing soundproofing measures.
It is important that all facilities, particularly those involved in activities that create noise, install soundproofing materials to meet regulatory standards.
This will ensure they operate within the prescribed limits and prevent disturbances in the community.
In addition, the commissioner extended her congratulations to Muslim faithful in the state in anticipation of the end of Ramadan and the forthcoming Eid celebrations, urging them to observe the festivities while being mindful of the noise impact on their neighbours.
This warning is the latest in a series of efforts by the Kwara State Government to ensure public health and safety, as well as a peaceful living environment for all residents.
