The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) has taken decisive action by shutting down a rice processing facility in Kano, Fortune Rice Mills Limited, for failing to comply with existing environmental regulations.
Enforcement Action
The enforcement operation, led by the North West Zonal Director, Dr. Mudashiru Raheem, was prompted by an investigation into public complaints against the facility. Residents had reported issues such as dust emissions and offensive odors, despite previous notices from NESREA regarding compliance concerns.
The investigation conducted by the zonal office uncovered violations of the National Environmental (Air Quality Control) Regulations 2014 and the National Environmental (Food, Beverages and Tobacco Sector) Regulations 2023. As a result, the facility was sealed on Monday, 18 May 2026.
Official Response
Speaking on the closure, the Director General of NESREA, Prof. Innocent Barikor, who authorized the sealing, expressed serious concern over the operator's reckless disregard for the health and well-being of citizens and the environment. He described the attitude as unacceptable and emphasized that health hazards and environmental protection must not be compromised for economic gains.
Barikor reiterated the agency's commitment to ensuring that all facilities operate within the law. He urged Nigerians to take ownership of their environment and act as watchdogs by promptly reporting any infractions to NESREA.
Background
Fortune Rice Mills Limited had been issued multiple notices about compliance concerns, but failed to address the issues, leading to the enforcement action. The sealing serves as a warning to other facilities that environmental regulations will be strictly enforced.
