The Federal Government has launched the National Environmental (Battery Control) Regulations 2024 to curb pollution and reduce waste from batteries in the Nigerian environment.

Speaking at the launch in Abuja, the Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Abbas Lawal, represented by the Director of Pollution Control and Environmental Health, Usman Abdullahi, said these Regulations aim to ensure the environmentally sound management of all types of batteries throughout their life cycle, from production, usage, collection, transportation, storage, recycling, and disposal.”

The Minister noted that improper handling of batteries poses serious environmental and health challenges, including soil, air, and water contamination, and can lead to severe health disorders.

Earlier in his remarks, the Director General/CEO of the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), Innocent Barikor, noted that enforcement of the Regulations would help correct gaps in unsound environmental practices throughout the entire battery value chain and prevent adverse health impacts on vulnerable populations, especially women and children.

Also, the Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, Hon. Terseer Ugbor, noted that the regulations, which set Guidelines for proper handling, disposal, and recycling of batteries, are crucial in minimizing environmental impact, as he assured that the National Assembly will provide legislative backing for effective enforcement.