By DORIS ESA

The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) has sealed 14 facilities within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) for non-compliance with extant environmental laws.

The facilities sealed included, Shaanxi Construction, Airport Road, Abuja; Clover Court, Mabushi, Abuja; Skyscape Real Estate Limited, Sabon Lugbe, Abuja; and Ibiza Nite Club, a popular entertainment centre, among others.

Addressing newsmen during the exercise on Wednesday, the Director-General of NESREA, Prof. Innocent Barikor, said the facilities were sealed for failure to submit their environmental documents in spite of three compliance concerns letters served on them.

“Our team had conducted comprehensive inspection of numerous facilities, focusing on compliance with environmental laws and regulations.

“These inspections revealed several violations related to lack of Environmental Documents, non-adherence to regulations guiding their operations among others,” he said.

Barikor said these could threaten or endanger both lives and property.

He said that following these inspections, the agency issued three notices of compliance concern to the erring facilities.

Barikor explained that the notices detailed the specific breaches observed and provide a framework for corrective actions.

“The facilities were required to address these issues within stipulated timelines, but these 14 facilities ignored the agency’s notification of concern letters, hence the need for enforcement.

“NESREA remains steadfast in its mission to enforce environmental regulations and protect our natural resources.

“We encourage all facilities to adhere to the established standards and take proactive measures to minimise their environmental impact,” he said.

He reiterated NESREA’s unwavering commitment to environmental protection.

Barikor said the agency would continue to monitor quarrying and construction activities closely and take appropriate actions against any entity that disregards environmental regulations.

“We urge all stakeholders in the quarrying and construction industry to prioritise compliance and adopt sustainable practices.

“The agency also urges all entertainment centres to adhere to noise regulations and take proactive steps to minimise their impact on surrounding communities.

“The agency is committed to protecting the rights of citizens to live in a peaceful and healthy environment,” he said. (NAN)