The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced strict penalties for facilities violating battery control regulations, imposing a fine of N2 million and a potential six-month jail term for offenders. This was disclosed by the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) during the launch of the National Environmental (Battery Control) Regulations in Abuja on Thursday.
According to NESREA’s Director-General, Dr. Innocent Barikor, the increasing use of batteries as an alternative energy source due to rising fossil fuel costs necessitates stronger regulatory oversight in the industry. Barikor emphasized that the improper disposal and handling of batteries in Nigeria is not in line with global best practices, highlighting the need for the newly introduced regulations.
“The battery control regulations cover production, storage, and transportation offenses, along with penalties for defaulters,” Barikor stated. He also stressed that corporate entities found violating these regulations face fines of no less than N2 million, while individuals may face penalties starting from N200,000, with the possibility of jail time.
Barikor urged Nigerians to be vigilant and report improper battery disposal, adding that the regulations give citizens a responsibility to ensure public spaces, water, air, and land are free from battery-related environmental hazards.
NESREA’s Director of Legal Services, Mr. George Tyendwa, represented by Assistant Director Cynthia Abiye-Whye, further noted that facilities posing immediate environmental or health risks would be sealed without waiting for a court order. He explained that fines for corporate offenses could escalate to N10 million or higher, while individuals involved in battery violations could face penalties up to N5 million, depending on the severity of the offense.
Tyendwa urged stakeholders to thoroughly study and comply with the new regulations, emphasizing that their success relies on enforcement, public education, infrastructure investment, and collaboration across sectors.
