OGEPA begins enforcement, air quality assessment at mining sites in Ogun East

The Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA) has initiated an enforcement and air quality assessment exercise at mining sites in the Ogun East Senatorial District. This assessment aims to identify and address potential environmental and health risks associated with gaseous emissions, pollutants, and industrial activities.

Kehinde Bello, General Manager of OGEPA, explained that the exercise seeks to evaluate the impact of emissions on the environment and the health of workers and residents living near mining sites. Prolonged exposure to dust, smoke, and pollutants from mining, quarry activities, and blasting poses significant risks to respiratory health, according to Bello.

The enforcement exercise will enable OGEPA to gather data on air quality within mining communities and determine appropriate regulatory measures for environmental violations or non-compliance cases. Bello emphasized that the exercise is part of the Agency's broader mandate to protect the environment, promote public health, and encourage responsible and sustainable industrial practices in Ogun State.

OGEPA will continue monitoring mining and industrial activities to ensure operators comply with environmental standards and regulations, particularly regarding air pollution and safe operational practices. Mr Olusesi Opaleye, Head of the OGEPA Task Force Unit, added that the exercise involves monitoring operational practices that could contribute to air pollution and other environmental hazards.

The Agency also aims to sensitize mining operators on the importance of complying with environmental regulations, obtaining necessary approvals, and adopting safer practices to minimize risks to workers and surrounding communities. Residents of communities hosting mining and blasting activities are encouraged to report suspected environmental violations to the appropriate authorities, and OGEPA pledged sustained monitoring, enforcement, and public sensitization efforts to ensure a cleaner, safer, and healthier environment for residents.