The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency has sealed six recycling plants in the Ogijo area of Ogun State for failing to meet environmental and safety rules.
The operation was carried out on Thursday in partnership with the Ogun State Ministry of Environment.
According to a statement by NESREA’s Assistant Director of Press, Nwamaka Ejiofor, the affected companies were shut down for violating the National Environmental Battery Control Regulations 2024 and a protocol created by NESREA to ensure safe handling of used lead-acid batteries.
The agency said the rules are aimed at protecting public health and preventing pollution linked to unsafe recycling practices.
Ogijo has long been known as a recycling hub, but residents and environmental groups have repeatedly raised concerns about lead contamination, soil damage, and air pollution caused by poor waste handling.
NESREA said the approved protocol requires operators to handle ULAB slag and other residue safely, carry out yearly blood lead tests for workers, and provide proper protective gear.
The rules also mandate annual environmental impact checks on nearby communities, the adoption of cleaner technology, and participation in pilot projects that explore using slag in brick and cement production.
Ejiofor added that the enforcement followed earlier assessments and sensitisation efforts done with the Ogun State Government and other partners under the Project for Responsible Battery and Metal Recycling.
Thursday’s action came just three days after the Federal Government shut two factories in the state for what it described as serious breaches of Occupational Safety and Health standards.
The companies affected are True Metals Nigeria Limited and Phoenix Steel Mills Limited, both located along the Ikorodu–Sagamu industrial corridor.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, said she ordered the shutdown during a surprise inspection on Monday.
At True Metals Nigeria Limited, which recycles used batteries, the minister expressed strong concern about the working conditions she witnessed.
She said, “That you are giving our people jobs does not warrant putting their lives at risk. We cannot say we are creating jobs while we are killing our people. There is no price for life. Every Nigerian deserves a safe and dignified working environment.”
