Listen to article
|
The Federal Government has certified more than 700 consultants to carry out environmental audits and enforce nationwide compliance with environmental laws.
According to a report from the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency, a Federal Government body, consultants are aiding numerous Nigerian companies in tackling environmental issues.
According to the report “NESREA and Environmental Protection in Nigeria: The Journey So Far,” acquired by the press from the Abuja headquarters on Tuesday, the agency accredits consultants to ensure adherence to environmental regulations.
Beginning in 2009, over 700 consultants have received accreditation, with 320 maintaining their credentials to date. They support firms in resolving environmental challenges and fostering compliance with regulations.
Environmental consultants are tasked with collecting and documenting evidence, assessing facility compliance, and conducting thorough environmental audits. They advise clients, create action plans, and submit their Environmental Audits (EAs) to NESREA for certification.
NESREA highlighted that its accredited consultants must adhere to its guidelines, which are reinforced through periodic workshops.
The Federal Government ensures adherence to environmental laws via NESREA, which frequently shuts down businesses that fail to comply.
In March 2024, for example, it shut down 13 facilities in the Federal Capital Territory for failing to comply with environmental regulations following thorough audits.
Read also: Umahi Fires All Contractors Handling Environmental Sanitation
Among the closed facilities were Veritas Plastics, Almat Farms, Dayak Nigeria Limited, FIK Contracting Limited, Salis Ventilated Homes Ltd, and Peachville Estate.
The agency’s latest report revealed, “Environmental audits are scrutinized to verify the Environmental Management Systems adopted by different industries and facilities, banks included.”
In a bid to reduce e-waste in Nigeria, NESREA works alongside various MDAs (ministries, departments, and agencies) to inspect and grant import clearance for used electronic equipment.
From 2022 until now, the agency has carried out regulatory enforcements on 115 facilities.
Through the registration of electrical electronics, batteries, food, beverages, and plastics, the agency is advancing the circular economy.
Innocent Barikor, Director-General of NESREA, addressed the induction of 100 new environmental consultants in Abuja, stating that their contributions would be vital for advancing environmental protection and sustainability in Nigeria.
Speaking to the new inductees, he emphasized, “NESREA’s mission is to provide a cleaner, healthier environment for all Nigerians by effectively enforcing environmental regulations. This mission is reliant on the dedication and expertise of skilled environmental consultants like you.”
“Your role is key in the identification, assessment, and mitigation of environmental impacts, and in ensuring adherence to environmental laws and standards,” Barikor added.
Joining as newly accredited consultants, you become integral to a vital network dedicated to environmental stewardship. You will serve as our eyes and ears on the ground, assisting in the monitoring, evaluation, and enhancement of environmental practices across various sectors. Your contributions will protect natural resources, public health, and support sustainable development.”