The Federal Government has shut down 14 facilities in Nigeria’s federal capital city of Abuja for flouting environmental laws.
The action was carried out by the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) after months of inspections and ignored warnings.
The closures affected businesses in nightlife, quarrying, and construction.
NESREA said the facilities failed to comply with environmental regulations despite receiving three separate notices detailing their violations.
“The facilities were expected to address the observed breaches within stipulated timelines, but they ignored the advisory,” said NESREA Director General, Prof. Innocent Barikor.
Noise, Blasting, and Missing Documents
Ibiza Nite Club (owned by popular socialite and business mogul, Obinna Iyiegbu aka Obi Cubana) and De Hive Night Club were sealed after residents complained about excessive noise.
NESREA’s inspection confirmed both clubs consistently exceeded permissible noise levels under the National Environmental (Noise Standards and Control) Regulations 2009.
“Our team discovered that Ibiza and De Hive nightclubs consistently exceeded permissible noise limits,” Barikor said. He warned that noise pollution in residential areas can cause serious health problems and environmental damage.
Dai Jin Jia Investment Limited, a quarrying firm, was also shut down. Residents of ACO Estate had protested the company’s blasting operations, which caused ground vibrations and flying rocks.
NESREA found the company used a Charge Loading Density of 4,000kg per blast—well above the 3,000kg limit. The blasting hole depth of 14 metres and pit depth of 17 metres also violated safety limits.
“These excessive blasting practices pose serious safety risks to lives and property in surrounding communities,” Barikor warned.
Eleven construction firms were sealed for operating without mandatory environmental documents.
These include the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and Environmental Audit Report (EAR), required under the National Environmental (Construction Sector) Regulations 2011.
The affected firms and estates are:
- Shaanxi Construction, Airport Road
- Brmley Home, Katampe
- Clover Court, Mabushi
- Skyscape Real Estate Limited, Sabon Lugbe
- Richardo Estate, Wuye
- H Medix Building, Wuye
- Stepcho Nigeria Limited, Wuye
- Bima Shelter, Asokoro
- Bilami Nig. Enterprise, Kado
- Ifedi Homes Estate, Kukwaba District
- Java Design Concept Nigeria, Wuse II
Agency Vows Continued Enforcement
Barikor urged facility owners to take responsibility and comply with environmental laws. “Operators must take proactive measures to minimise their environmental impact,” he said.
He warned that NESREA will continue monitoring activities and will not hesitate to act against repeat offenders. The agency also offers training to help facility managers understand sector-specific regulations.
“We do not believe every facility manager understands all the issues. That’s why we organise training,” Barikor added.
NESREA reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Nigeria’s environment and ensuring public safety. The agency enforces over 30 sector-specific regulations, covering noise, air quality, hazardous substances, and more.
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