NEPZA Gives Calabar Free Trade Zone Firm Three Months To Tackle Pollution
NEPZA Moves to Address Environmental Complaints
THE Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) has issued a three-month ultimatum to Bao Yao Industry to resolve environmental pollution concerns within the Calabar Free Trade Zone, warning that failure to comply could result in severe regulatory sanctions, including the suspension of its operating licence.
The directive was announced during an interactive meeting between NEPZA management, investors and key stakeholders in Calabar, where concerns were raised over emissions linked to the company’s industrial operations.
Stakeholders Raise Health and Environmental Concerns
Several businesses operating within the free trade zone expressed growing concern about the impact of emissions reportedly emanating from Bao Yao Industry, particularly during nighttime operations.
According to stakeholders, the persistent pollution has generated fears about potential health risks for workers and residents, as well as possible environmental degradation within the industrial zone.
The complaints have intensified calls for stricter enforcement of environmental standards to ensure that economic activities within the zone do not compromise public health or sustainable industrial development.
Free Trade Zone Management Cites Repeated Engagements
The Managing Director of the Calabar Free Trade Zone, Mrs. Binta Saeed, disclosed that management had repeatedly engaged the company on the need to install pollution-control equipment capable of reducing harmful emissions.
She explained that several meetings had been held and official correspondence exchanged with the company over the issue, but the promised corrective measures had yet to materialise.
According to her, assurances from the company regarding the procurement and installation of pollution-control systems have not translated into visible improvements, allowing the environmental concerns to persist.
NEPZA Threatens Regulatory Action
Reacting to the complaints, NEPZA Managing Director, Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi, adopted a firm stance, stressing that environmental compliance remains a non-negotiable requirement for all operators within Nigeria’s export processing zones.
He warned that any activity capable of endangering public health or undermining environmental sustainability would not be tolerated.
Ogunyemi further noted that prolonged environmental violations could damage investor confidence and negatively affect the reputation of the free trade zone as a destination for responsible investment.
Company Promises Corrective Measures
Responding to the concerns, Bao Yao Industry acknowledged the complaints and assured stakeholders that efforts were underway to address the issue.
The company’s Public Relations Officer, Festus Olukiran, stated that management was actively engaging relevant stakeholders and had commenced steps toward acquiring and installing the necessary equipment required to minimise emissions.
However, NEPZA maintained that commitments alone would no longer suffice, insisting that measurable action must be taken within the three-month period.
Balancing Investment and Environmental Responsibility
The development highlights the growing emphasis on environmental accountability within Nigeria’s industrial and export processing zones.
While authorities continue to encourage investment and industrial expansion, regulators are increasingly demanding that businesses operate in line with environmental best practices.
For NEPZA, the challenge lies in maintaining a business-friendly environment while ensuring that industrial growth does not come at the expense of public health, environmental safety and long-term sustainability.
