By Olasunkanmi Akoni
The Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) has reopened six iron and steel manufacturing companies in Odogunyan, Ikorodu, after confirming they had addressed environmental violations that led to their closure.
The agency unsealed the companies following a comprehensive compliance assessment, which verified that they had implemented corrective measures to meet environmental standards.
The companies were sealed on Monday as part of LASEPA’s enforcement drive across the Ikorodu Industrial Corridor after the agency’s air quality monitoring system detected elevated levels of pollution.
The affected firms are African Steel Mills Ltd, Pulkit Alloy & Steel Limited, LandCraft Industries Ltd, Sunflag Steel Nigeria Ltd, Gemini Steel Nigeria Ltd, and Top Steel Nigeria Ltd.
Speaking during the reopening, LASEPA General Manager, Dr. Babatunde Ajayi, said the enforcement action was prompted by real-time air quality data indicating significant pollution in the area.
“On Monday, July 27, we carried out an intensive enforcement exercise in the industrial and commercial corridors of Lagos after our air quality monitors detected several red flags,” Ajayi said.
He listed the environmental infractions to include the emission of brown dust, black dust, mill scale, shredded dust, dead dust, and other non-metallic particulate matter.
“These pollutants pose significant threats to air quality, public health, and the surrounding environment, making prompt regulatory intervention imperative,” he added.
Ajayi noted that LASEPA operates air quality monitoring devices strategically located across the state, with the data made publicly accessible.
Companies sign compliance agreement
He disclosed that LASEPA and the affected manufacturers signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) before the facilities were reopened.
Under the agreement, the companies committed to complying fully with environmental laws and operational guidelines issued by the agency, while implementing all corrective measures outlined in the MoU.
The conditions include the installation and maintenance of efficient filtration systems on furnaces to reduce air emissions, as well as proper management and disposal of industrial waste in line with LASEPA’s approved standards.
“Our technical team is permanently stationed within the Odogunyan Industrial Corridor to provide technical guidance and ensure strict compliance with these directives,” Ajayi said.
Health concerns
Ajayi warned that prolonged exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) could cause respiratory diseases and other serious health complications.
According to him, LASEPA’s intervention has already resulted in a significant reduction in emissions, thereby lowering potential health risks to residents in surrounding communities.
He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to sustained surveillance and enforcement across Lagos’ industrial corridors.
“Our enforcement and monitoring teams will remain on the ground every day to ensure that industrial activities do not compromise the health, safety and well-being of residents living within host communities,” he said.
Also speaking, the newly appointed Zonal Head of Ikorodu I, Engr. Taiwo Olumuyiwa, urged the companies to strengthen their environmental management systems and adopt international best practices to reduce emissions and improve waste management.
Olumuyiwa reiterated LASEPA’s commitment to working collaboratively with industries while maintaining strict enforcement to promote a cleaner, healthier and more sustainable Lagos.
The post Ikorodu air pollution: LASEPA reopens six companies after compliance deal, vows sustained enforcement appeared first on Vanguard News.