Dare Babalola
The Ogun State Government has issued a stern warning to metal recycling companies operating in Ogijo, emphasising that the March 31st, 2026 deadline for retrofitting their operations with modern, eco-friendly technologies is non-negotiable.
The government is determined to curb environmental hazards in the industrial town, and firms failing to comply will face severe penalties, including possible permanent shutdown.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Conference Room of the Ministry of Environment, State Secretariat, Okemosan, Abeokuta, Hon Kehinde Bello, General Manager of the Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA), stressed that the retrofitting drive aims to halt pollution caused by obsolete equipment.
“This will stop the negative and hazardous impacts on communities, alongside addressing their irresponsible attitude toward abatement,” Bello said.
Bello noted that successive administrations have attempted to enforce compliance over the past 15 years through sanctions, stop-work orders, and facility closures, but the current Prince Dapo Abiodun administration is taking a firmer stance.
He continued, “We’ve notified the companies of the deadline. This meeting is to reinforce our resolve to enforce it. We won’t compromise the health and well-being of Ogijo residents for economic interests.”
Addressing community leaders, Bello made it clear that no extension of the deadline will be entertained, urging them to support the government’s push for a healthier Ogijo.
“The decision is final. We’re committed to restoring a safe environment,” he said.
The warning underscores Ogun State’s efforts to balance industrial growth with environmental sustainability.
