In a decisive move to combat noise pollution, the Ogun State Government has closed 45 establishments and sanctioned 175 others in 2024 for violating environmental noise regulations. The affected entities include religious centers, entertainment venues, and commercial outlets across the state.
Dr. Ola Oresanya, the Commissioner for Environment, announced these actions during the 2025 International Noise Awareness Day, themed “Protect Your Hearing, Protect Your Health.” He emphasised that while communication is essential, excessive noise poses significant health risks and is a serious public concern.
“Noise pollution is not only an environmental issue but also a nuisance that impacts people’s lives,” Oresanya stated. He highlighted that the permissible noise levels are set at 50 decibels during the day and 35 decibels at night for residential areas; 60 decibels during the day and 40 decibels at night for places of worship; and the same levels apply to entertainment and commercial centers.
The commissioner urged households, community leaders, and operators of entertainment and commercial centers to adhere to these standards to avoid sanctions. He also called on Community Development Associations to establish agreeable maximum noise levels in their areas, pledging that the ministry would continue public enlightenment programs and stakeholder engagements.
This crackdown follows previous enforcement actions, such as the sealing of three churches in Abeokuta in April 2024 for persistent noise pollution despite multiple warnings. The affected churches included Christ Apostolic Church, Fountain of Faith District Headquarters; Ambassador of Truth Assembly International; and Salvation Ministries.
The Ogun State Government’s actions underscore its commitment to ensuring a peaceful and healthy environment for its residents. By enforcing noise regulations, the state aims to protect public health and uphold the rights of citizens to a serene living space.