Director-General Dr. Innocent Barikor of the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) reiterated the organization’s commitment to implementing Environmental Sustainability standards among Nigerian manufacturers. To make sure that international standards are followed, NESREA has created 36 National Environmental Regulations and other guidelines. The agency intends to keep up enforcement against companies that do not comply with environmental regulations and is now pursuing 96 establishments across the country for environmental violations. NESREA would make the names of establishments that breach its enforcement seals publicly available as part of its regulatory actions, especially in Katsina and Abuja.
With assistance from the German government, NESREA has launched the National Battery Sector Control Regulations 2024 to enhance used battery management and advance a circular Economy in the battery industry. The organisation wants to expand its Sustainability initiatives to include batteries, used tires, and plastic trash. It has already done so in the food, beverage, electrical, and electronics industries. In order to raise environmental awareness, NESREA has partnered with the European Union to provide awareness workshops for stakeholders, such as the media, judiciary, and Construction industry.
Criminal enforcement actions against 96 facilities in the country in 2024.
Through training with partners like the Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA), USAID, the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, and others, the agency is also placing a high priority on staff development. In order to protect wildlife, NESREA has seized almost 4 tonnes of pangolin scales and more than 2.5 tonnes of ivory, demonstrating Nigeria’s resolve to fight the illegal wildlife trade. In 2025, the agency intends to implement new rules with an emphasis on decarbonisation and the decommissioning of government buildings that are no longer in use. NESREA was founded in 2007 and enforces environmental laws, regulations, and standards throughout Nigeria under the auspices of the NESREA Act.
In Nigeria, environmental restrictions have been vigorously enforced by the National Environmental Standards and restrictions Enforcement Agency (NESREA) in a number of businesses. For environmental infractions, the EPA launched criminal enforcement actions against 96 facilities around the country in 2024. These facilities cover a variety of industries, including waste management, manufacturing, and energy, though individual company names are not made public. As an example of NESREA’s dedication to combating environmental violations across a range of businesses, the agency closed Cyvillian Garden, a well-liked leisure area in Mararaba, Nasarawa State, in February 2025 because of excessive noise pollution.
Environmentalists applaud NESREA’s proactive approach.
Stakeholder reactions to NESREA’s enforcement actions have been mixed. Manufacturers have voiced worries about the operational impact of strict restrictions through the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN). They support a well-rounded strategy that protects the environment without impeding the expansion of industry. Environmentalists, on the other hand, applaud NESREA’s proactive approach and stress the importance of rigorous enforcement for Public Health and sustainable development. The significance of compliance is emphasised by policymakers, who point out that upholding environmental standards improves Nigeria’s reputation abroad and draws environmentally aware investment.
Measurable environmental improvements have been brought about by NESREA’s enforcement efforts. For instance, the agency’s crackdown on the illegal wildlife Trade resulted in the confiscation of nearly 4 tonnes of pangolin scales and over 2.5 tonnes of ivory, demonstrating Nigeria’s commitment to combating environmental crimes. The National Battery Sector Control Regulations 2024, which regulate used battery management and encourage Recycling and contribute to a circular economy, not only discourage environmental violations but also encourage a sustainable Culture among the public and businesses.
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Participation from the public is essential to supporting NESREA’s work. Via the official NESREA website, which offers a forum for filing complaints and providing information on environmental violations, citizens can help by reporting environmental issues. Adopting Eco-friendly behaviours and participating in community awareness campaigns increase the impact of regulatory actions. Proactive reporting and group vigilance enable NESREA to quickly detect and resolve environmental issues, guaranteeing a better environment for everybody. Numerous industries have seen NESREA’s enforcement efforts, which have resulted in a range of responses from stakeholders and real environmental benefits. Maintaining these initiatives and attaining long-term ecological balance in Nigeria still heavily depends on active citizen participation.