NESREA Seals 14 Facilities In Abuja Over Environmental Violations

The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) on Wednesday shut down 14 facilities across Abuja for breaching multiple environmental regulations.

The enforcement, which spanned sectors including construction, entertainment, and quarrying, followed prior inspections and unheeded compliance warnings, according to the agency. NESREA said the exercise was part of its broader effort to uphold environmental standards and safeguard public health and safety.

The agency’s Director-General, Prof. Innocent Barikor, stated that all affected facilities had been issued notices detailing specific breaches and corrective steps. However, they failed to comply within the set timelines, prompting the enforcement action.

Among those sealed were Dai Jin Jia Investment Limited (Airport Road), Ibiza Nite Club and De Hive Night Club (both in Area 11), Shaanxi Construction, BRMley Home, Clover Court, and several estates and construction firms across Wuye, Katampe, Asokoro, and other parts of the city.

Dai Jin Jia Investment Limited was penalized for illegal quarrying and excessive blasting activities, which reportedly endangered residents of ACO Estate. NESREA’s findings revealed the company used 1,000kg more explosives than permitted and exceeded legal depth limits for both blasting holes and quarry pits leading to severe ground vibrations, rock projectiles, noise, and air pollution.

Nightclubs Ibiza and De Hive were sealed for violating Nigeria’s Noise Control Regulations after repeated complaints and failure to reduce sound levels despite prior warnings.

Prof. Barikor stressed that the enforcement is not punitive but corrective, aimed at guiding businesses toward regulatory compliance. He warned that unsealing any of the facilities without NESREA’s clearance is a criminal offense.

The DG also reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to public sensitization, saying that training is regularly offered to help facilities understand sector-specific regulations.

Additionally, NESREA’s Director of Environmental Quality Control, Elijah Udofia, disclosed that several construction firms were shut down for commencing projects without the legally required Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs).

NESREA urged all sectors particularly those in quarrying, construction, and entertainment—to adopt sustainable practices, obtain the necessary environmental documents, and comply with applicable regulations to avoid sanctions.