The Managing Director of NEPZA, Dr Olufemi Ogunyemi, issued the directive at an interactive meeting with investors and stakeholders in Calabar.
The directive was issued following complaints about emissions from the company’s operations.
Representatives of some firms operating within the zone expressed concern over the environmental and health implications of the company’s activities, particularly at night.
The Managing Director of the Calabar Free Trade Zone, Mrs Binta Saeed said the management of the zone had repeatedly engaged the company on the need to install pollution-control equipment.
According to her, the company has made several commitments to address the issue without tangible results.
“We have written several letters and held meetings with them. They keep assuring us that the scrubber equipment is coming, but the problem persists,” she said.
Responding, Ogunyemi warned that environmental violations would not be tolerated under his watch.
“Nobody will joke with anything that harms Nigerians. Pollution cannot be tolerated.
“If this matter is not resolved within three months, I will suspend the company’s licence,” he said.
The NEPZA boss said environmental protection was a priority, noting that failure by operators to comply with environmental standards could negatively affect investment confidence in the zone.
The Public Relations Officer of Bao Yao Industry, Festus Olukiran, acknowledged the concerns and assured stakeholders that the company’s management was already taking steps to address the issue.
He said the company’s Chief Operating Officer was engaging relevant stakeholders and that necessary equipment would be installed to mitigate emissions.
Ogunyemi insisted that the company must demonstrate concrete action within the stipulated period.
“Three months is enough. The issue has lingered for too long.
“If nothing changes within that period, the company will face regulatory action,” he said. (
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