LASEPA Highlights Noise Pollution Concerns in Lagos
The Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) announced that approximately 65 percent of complaints from residents pertain to noise pollution, underscoring the immediate need for enhanced collaboration among stakeholders and sustained public engagement to address this pressing issue.
Focus on Dialogue and Advocacy
During the 11th Noiseless Lagos Summit, themed “Advances in Acoustic Control and Technology in Emerging Smart Cities,” LASEPA’s General Manager, Dr. Babatunde Ajayi, emphasized the importance of fostering dialogue and advocacy as a means to mitigate noise pollution, rather than solely relying on enforcement actions across the state.
Beyond Regulation and Enforcement
Dr. Ajayi acknowledged that while regulatory measures and enforcement are crucial, they alone are insufficient to effectively tackle the escalating concerns surrounding excessive noise in Lagos. He stated that constant engagement with stakeholders is vital to promote responsible practices.
Engagement with Diverse Sectors
The agency’s outreach initiatives target a variety of businesses and institutions, including places of worship, event venues, and other commercial enterprises. Dr. Ajayi highlighted the necessity of balancing corporate interests with the welfare and quality of life for adjacent residents.
Encouraging Compliance Through Collaboration
The summit aimed to enhance understanding of existing regulatory restrictions and foster compliance collaboratively, rather than through punitive measures. Dr. Ajayi stated that businesses are essential partners in achieving environmental sustainability, and LASEPA is dedicated to working alongside different sectors to create a healthier and more livable city.
Involving Future Generations in Advocacy
Dr. Ajayi also stressed the significance of engaging young individuals in environmental advocacy, having invited students to the event as part of a broader initiative to instill a culture of environmental responsibility. He argued that teaching children about sustainability not only impacts their behavior but also influences their families as they grow into responsible adults.
Collective Responsibility and Data-Driven Decision Making
During the event, representatives from various sectors, including religious groups and the hospitality industry, gathered to promote compliance and strive for a cleaner, quieter Lagos. Mujida Olayde from the Urban Planning Department reiterated the government’s commitment to environmental protection and emphasized that addressing noise pollution is a collective responsibility that requires ongoing advocacy and public awareness.
The Economic Cost of Noise Pollution
Mr. Olayide Ismael from the Physical Planning Department highlighted the economic ramifications of noise pollution in Nigeria, citing an estimated annual loss of around N990 billion due to its effects. He noted that excessive noise not only impacts public health but also adversely affects concentration and productivity. The event concluded with the awards ceremony for the winners of the 2026 International Noise Awareness Day (INAD) inter-district essay competition, which centered on the theme “Technology and Noise: Who is Responsible?”
