By Abdullahi Lukman
The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) conducted criminal enforcement actions against 96 facilities nationwide for environmental violations in 2024.
Dr. Innocent Barikor, NESREA’s Director-General, announced this during a news conference on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, in Abuja.
He emphasized that NESREA would continue its efforts as long as non-compliant facilities remain negligent in fulfilling their environmental responsibilities.
To enhance environmental compliance monitoring, NESREA has developed 36 National Environmental Regulations and several National Environmental Guidelines.
The agency utilizes various enforcement methods, including administrative, civil, and criminal procedures, to ensure adherence to environmental standards in both green and brown sectors.
Dr. Barikor outlined NESREA’s long-term goal of cultivating a culture of voluntary compliance, where operators follow environmental regulations without the need for legal action.
He stressed that NESREA would persist in its enforcement actions as long as facilities failed to meet their obligations.
The agency, the DG said, has also made significant strides in regulating the previously ungoverned Battery Sector by introducing the National Environmental (Battery Sector Control) Regulations, 2024, supported by the German Government (GIZ).
This regulation addresses the environmental and health risks posed by the improper handling of Used Lead Acid Batteries (ULABs).
Barikor called on Nigerians to support NESREA’s efforts in achieving a better environment, in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He urged the public to act as environmental watchdogs, reporting infractions and promoting sustainable practices to help create a cleaner and healthier Nigeria.
