The Ogun State Government, in partnership with the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), has sealed several recycling facilities in the Ogijo community for allegedly violating key environmental and public safety regulations.
The enforcement action followed the operators’ failure to comply with the National Environmental (Battery Control) Regulations 2024 and a NESREA developed protocol designed to ensure the safe and responsible management of used lead acid batteries. The agency said the move became necessary to protect residents and the environment from the dangers associated with improper battery recycling.
According to the protocol, recycling companies are required to properly handle ULAB slag and base-metal residues, adopt safe and socially responsible operational practices, and put workers’ health first. This includes annual blood-lead level testing for staff and consistent provision of personal protective equipment.
The guidelines also mandate recyclers to conduct yearly environmental impact audits on neighbouring communities, switch to cleaner recycling technologies, and collaborate on pilot initiatives such as converting slag into bricks or raw materials for cement production.
Before the shutdown, NESREA, alongside the Ogun State Ministry of Environment and partners under the Project for Responsible Battery and Metal Recycling (PROBAMET), had carried out extensive assessments and sensitization campaigns. The efforts were aimed at helping operators align with international best practices in the recycling sector.
