Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) has reopened six iron and steel manufacturing companies in Odogunyan, Ikorodu, after confirming that they complied with environmental regulations following enforcement actions over air pollution.
The companies were initially shut down during an enforcement operation across the Ikorodu Industrial Corridor after LASEPA’s air quality monitoring system detected dangerous levels of pollution linked to their operations.
The affected firms include 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 of the facilities, LASEPA General Manager, Dr. Babatunde Ajayi, said the decision followed a detailed compliance assessment which confirmed that the companies had implemented the required corrective measures.
Ajayi explained that the enforcement exercise was triggered after the agency’s real-time air quality monitoring system recorded alarming pollution levels in the industrial area.
According to him, inspectors identified several environmental violations, including the release of brown dust, black dust, mill scale, shredded dust, dead dust, and other harmful particulate matter capable of endangering public health and degrading the environment.
He noted that LASEPA operates air quality monitoring stations across Lagos to track pollution levels and ensure industries comply with environmental regulations.
Before the factories were reopened, the agency signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the affected companies, committing them to fully comply with environmental laws and implement all corrective measures outlined by the agency.
Under the agreement, the companies are required to install and maintain effective filtration systems on their furnaces to reduce emissions while ensuring proper handling and disposal of industrial waste in line with LASEPA-approved standards.
Ajayi also disclosed that the agency has stationed a technical team permanently within the Odogunyan Industrial Corridor to provide guidance and monitor compliance with environmental directives.
He warned that prolonged exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) poses serious health risks, including respiratory illnesses and other long-term medical conditions.
According to him, the recent intervention has already led to a noticeable reduction in harmful emissions, helping to improve air quality and reduce health risks for residents of nearby communities.
Ajayi reaffirmed that LASEPA would continue daily surveillance and enforcement across industrial areas in Lagos to ensure business activities do not threaten public health or the environment.
Also speaking, the newly appointed Zonal Head of Ikorodu I, Engr. Taiwo Olumuyiwa, urged industries in the area to strengthen their environmental management systems, adopt international best practices, and improve waste management processes to sustain cleaner production.
He added that LASEPA remains committed to partnering with industries while maintaining strict enforcement to promote a healthier and more sustainable environment across Lagos.
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