The Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) has reopened six iron and steel companies in Odogunyan, Ikorodu, after the firms addressed environmental violations that led to their closure.
LASEPA unsealed the companies following a compliance assessment that confirmed the manufacturers had implemented corrective measures to meet environmental standards.
The agency shut the firms on Monday during an enforcement drive across the Ikorodu Industrial Corridor, after its air quality monitoring system flagged elevated pollution levels.
The affected companies 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.
LASEPA General Manager Dr. Babatunde Ajayi said the crackdown followed real-time data showing 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 violations as emissions of brown dust, black dust, mill scale, shredded dust, dead dust and other non-metallic particulate matter, warning that these pollutants threaten air quality, public health and the environment.
Ajayi said LASEPA’s air quality monitors are strategically positioned across the state, with the data publicly accessible.
MoU signed before reopening
LASEPA and the manufacturers signed a Memorandum of Understanding before the facilities reopened. Under the agreement, the companies committed to full compliance with environmental laws and to carrying out all corrective measures in the MoU.
The conditions include installing and maintaining efficient filtration systems on furnaces to cut emissions, and managing industrial waste disposal according to 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 risks flagged
Ajayi warned that prolonged exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) can cause respiratory diseases and other serious health complications. He said LASEPA’s intervention has already cut emissions significantly, reducing health risks for residents nearby.
He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to sustained surveillance 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.
Ikorodu I Zonal Head, Engr. Taiwo Olumuyiwa, urged the companies to strengthen their environmental management systems and adopt international best practices to cut emissions and improve waste handling. He said LASEPA remains committed to working with industries while enforcing standards for a cleaner, healthier Lagos.
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