Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, the Honourable Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, has announced that the Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on noise pollution during and after the Yuletide season. Mr. Wahab made this declaration during a press conference held at the Ministry of Environment Conference Room, Alausa, on Friday, December 20, 2024, and was joined by Dr. Babatunde Ajayi, the General Manager of the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA).

He emphasized that despite various Government regulations and advocacy efforts, noise pollution remains a persistent problem in the state. The Commissioner stressed that the government is committed to enforcing the ‘Noiseless Lagos’ policy, which aims to minimize noise levels and promote a safer, more peaceful environment for residents.

Mr. Tokunbo Wahab announced that the government has put in place several measures to achieve this goal. A Special Task Force on Noise Pollution will be established to monitor and enforce noise regulations throughout the Yuletide season and the New Year. He explained that the task force will be empowered to arrest and prosecute individuals and organizations that fail to comply with noise regulations.

The Commissioner for Environment also stated that environmental and law enforcement agencies will increase patrols and monitoring to identify and prosecute noise polluters. He also noted that worship centers, nightclubs, and other establishments that host public events with loud music must obtain permits from the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) and soundproof their premises.

He emphasized that the Government will also launch targeted campaigns to educate the public on the dangers of noise pollution and the importance of adhering to acceptable noise levels. He said that this effort will help to create a more peaceful and healthier environment for residents.

The Commissioner commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his deputy, Dr. Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat, for their vision of a greater Lagos, which includes achieving a cleaner, safer, noiseless, peaceful, and healthier environment. He emphasized the ministry’s commitment to implementing government reform policies on sustainable environments, in line with the T.H.E.M.E.S plus development agenda.