By Rasheeda Hamidu
The Lagos State Government has detected hazardous chemical substances in industrial waste discharged into drainage channels in Ikeja, Lagos, prompting renewed enforcement measures to protect public health and the environment.
The discovery was announced on Monday during an enforcement and monitoring operation conducted by the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) in parts of the Ikeja industrial corridor, according to the agency.
General Manager of LASEPA, Babatunde Ajayi, disclosed that samples collected from industrial discharge points revealed the presence of toxic substances capable of contaminating water bodies and exposing nearby residents to environmental risks.
Ajayi stated that the agency intensified surveillance across industrial facilities following concerns over untreated effluents and improper waste disposal practices within the state’s manufacturing zones.
According to LASEPA, some facilities were found discharging wastewater directly into public drainage systems in violation of environmental regulations established to control industrial pollution and safeguard ecosystems.
Ajayi noted that the agency would continue compliance inspections and enforce sanctions against industries that fail to meet approved environmental standards for waste management and effluent treatment.
The Lagos State Government maintained that improper disposal of chemical waste contributes to water pollution, environmental degradation, and public health hazards, particularly in densely populated urban communities.
LASEPA further urged industries operating within Lagos to adopt sustainable waste treatment systems and comply with environmental laws aimed at reducing pollution and protecting residents from toxic exposure.
Environmental monitoring and enforcement remain critical to reducing industrial pollution risks and supporting sustainable urban development in Nigeria’s commercial centres.
