In a sweeping environmental enforcement operation, the Lagos State Government has sealed several establishments including churches, bakeries, hotels, and residential buildings for violating noise pollution regulations. The action, carried out by the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), took place across key areas in the Lagos Mainland, sending a strong message about the government’s zero-tolerance stance on environmental infractions.
The operation, conducted on Wednesday, targeted locations in Onike, Yaba, China Town, Ojota, Pedro, Bariga, Magodo, Shomolu, and Ebute Metta. Among the facilities sealed were religious institutions such as CCC Church and CCC Training Seminary, commercial ventures including Suit Las Caracas and Forest Guzu Xinlong Zhongnia Horn Co. Ltd., and bakeries like Success Bakery, JP Ventures Bakery, and Aliya Bakery. Several residential apartments and warehouses also faced closure.
LASEPA’s Director of Public Affairs confirmed the development in a statement released Friday. The agency noted that the enforcement became necessary following repeated violations of permissible noise levels, despite prior warnings and sensitization efforts.
Speaking on the significance of the clampdown, LASEPA General Manager, Dr. Babatunde Ajayi, emphasized the critical role of environmental health in urban sustainability. He said, “Noise pollution is not just an inconvenience; it is a serious public health concern that contributes to stress, hearing loss, and reduced productivity. Our enforcement today is a clear message that we are committed to protecting the environment and ensuring a healthier Lagos.”
Dr. Ajayi added that the government remains determined to create a cleaner, quieter, and more livable Lagos, urging individuals, businesses, and religious organizations to adhere strictly to the state’s environmental regulations.
This action is part of a broader environmental compliance strategy under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration, aimed at addressing growing concerns about environmental degradation and its impact on residents’ well-being. The initiative aligns with the Lagos State Development Plan (LSDP) which prioritizes urban livability, public health, and sustainable development.
Residents in affected areas have expressed mixed reactions. While some welcomed the move as long overdue, citing sleepless nights caused by blaring loudspeakers and industrial noise, others called for more dialogue between LASEPA and affected establishments to encourage voluntary compliance rather than punitive measures.
Noise pollution remains one of the top environmental complaints in Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial capital, where a population of over 20 million contends with constant urban hustle. LASEPA has over the years intensified its monitoring operations, leveraging environmental sensors and public hotlines to track violations.
Environmental activists have praised the recent action as a step in the right direction, urging the government to follow through with consistent enforcement while also providing support for affected businesses to implement noise control measures such as soundproofing.
As enforcement continues, Dr. Ajayi reiterated that compliance is not optional. “No entity is above the law. We will continue to monitor and take action wherever necessary to safeguard public health. Lagos deserves an environment where residents can live, work, and worship in peace.”