Agency cites air quality and food sector violations after public complaint
The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) has sealed Fortune Rice Mills Limited in Kano for non-compliance with environmental regulations, according to a statement issued by Nwamaka Ejiofor, Assistant Director (Press).
The enforcement exercise was led by the North West Zonal Director, Dr Mudashiru Raheem, following an investigation into a public complaint against the facility. The complaint centred on dust emissions and offensive odour, despite previous notices of compliance concerns issued by NESREA.
The zonal office’s investigation found violations of the National Environmental (Air Quality Control) Regulations 2014 and the National Environmental (Food, Beverages and Tobacco Sector) Regulations 2023. The facility was sealed on Monday 18 May 2026.
The Director General of NESREA, Prof Innocent Barikor, issued the order to seal the facility and expressed deep concern over what he called the reckless attitude of some facilities towards the health and wellbeing of citizens and the environment. He said the attitude was unacceptable.
Prof Barikor insisted that the health of citizens and the environment must not be sacrificed for economic gain. He stressed that NESREA would continue to ensure facilities operate within the law, and urged Nigerians to act as watchdogs by promptly reporting infractions to the agency.
