The Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) has disclosed that noise pollution was the most reported environmental nuisance in the state last year. The agency's General Manager, Dr. Babatunde Ajayi, revealed this data while outlining the agency's activities for 2025 and its plans for the current year.
Noise Dominates Public Complaints
Dr. Ajayi stated that out of a total of 8,437 environmental complaints received by LASEPA in 2025, a significant 3,300 were specifically related to noise pollution. While many of these cases were resolved without resorting to sealing premises, the agency has signalled a shift towards stricter enforcement measures in 2026.
Ajayi emphasised that public health remains the central focus of LASEPA's mandate. He linked environmental management directly to the well-being and economic productivity of Lagos residents. "For every one naira spent on environmental protection efforts, about N40 is saved that would otherwise have been spent on sickness or disease management," he noted, adding that approximately 25% of diseases reported in health facilities are environmentally related.
Chemical Control and Expanded Monitoring
A key priority for the agency is the management of chemicals, identified as precursors to local drug problems. LASEPA has established a compliance mechanism focusing on the Ojota chemical market, one of the largest in Lagos. The goal is to ensure proper registration, handling, and labelling of all chemicals to prevent misuse.
On air quality, Dr. Ajayi reported progress in the agency's monitoring capabilities. From previously having fewer than 24 air monitors, LASEPA now has 114 operational units across Lagos, with weekly data releases. The ambition is to expand this network substantially. 60 new monitors are already on the ground awaiting installation, and the agency aims to have at least 200 installed across the state by the end of 2026.
Plans for Stricter Enforcement and Data Transparency
Looking ahead, LASEPA intends to strengthen its enforcement activities and deepen collaborations. The agency carried out 244 enforcement actions in 2025 as part of its drive for change. Furthermore, to keep the public informed, LASEPA plans to start publishing a monthly summary of environmental data, providing valuable insights for stakeholders.
The agency also conducted 1,637 laboratory tests in 2025 and aims to increase this figure in the current year. Dr. Ajayi described 2025 as a significant year where every department within LASEPA was involved in major activities, setting the stage for a more proactive and data-driven approach to environmental protection in Nigeria's most populous city.
