By: Tijani Salako.

The Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA) has called for stronger synergy with the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) following a fire outbreak at the Ogun Guangdong Free Trade Zone in Igbesa.

The General Manager of OGEPA, Hon. Kehinde Bello, who visited the scene of the incident at Goodmatrass, said the visit was aimed at conducting a preliminary assessment of the situation and evaluating the environmental implications of the incident.

This was disclosed in a press statement issued by the Head of Information and Public Relations of OGEPA, Mr. Luke Adebesin.

According to the statement, Hon. Bello called for closer and urgent collaboration between OGEPA and NEPZA to ensure proper monitoring of activities within the free trade zone and promote sustainable environmental management practices.

“There is a need for OGEPA to carry out its statutory functions by monitoring the environmental effects of activities within the free trade zone in the state,” he said.

Hon. Bello also expressed concern over the potential impact of hazardous waste and poor waste management practices, noting that the absence of adequate oversight could pose serious environmental risks.

He therefore advocated a more coordinated approach involving key stakeholders, including industrial operators, environmental experts, and local authorities, to ensure that the Ogun Guangdong Free Trade Zone remains a safe and sustainable hub for businesses.

He further emphasized the importance of regular environmental inspections and stringent safety protocols, particularly in zones with high industrial activities, while stressing the need to grant OGEPA official access to the zone to enable the agency to effectively discharge its statutory responsibilities.

The General Manager’s visit, the statement noted, underscores OGEPA’s commitment to proactive environmental protection measures and ensuring that environmental safety remains a top priority in Ogun State’s growing industrial sector.