Abuja: The Nigerian Government and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) are joining forces to bolster national infrastructure and human resources for effective chemicals and waste management in Nigeria. This collaboration was highlighted by Prof. Innocent Barikor, Director-General of the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), during a stakeholders review workshop aimed at adopting final drafts of three crucial sectoral regulations in Abuja.
According to Voice of Nigeria, the three sectoral regulations under review include the National Environmental, (Chemical, Pharmaceutical, Soap and Detergent Manufacturing Sector) Regulations, 2009, the National Environmental, (Energy Sector) Regulations, 2009, and the National Environmental, (Import and Export) Regulations, 2009. Prof. Barikor emphasized that the partnership between NESREA and UNEP aligns Nigeria’s national priorities with global environmental goals, leveraging international expertise and ensuring that regulatory approaches fit the country’s distinct needs.
Prof. Barikor explained that the draft regulations for the chemical and pharmaceutical, soap, and detergent manufacturing industries address sectors crucial to Nigeria’s economic growth and public health. Despite their significant contributions to industrial output and employment, these sectors produce complex waste streams that require meticulous oversight.
He also noted the necessity for urgent updates to the existing chemicals and pharmaceuticals and energy sector regulations, which have been operational for over a decade, to address emerging environmental challenges. The evolving landscape of chemical management and developments in the energy sector demand these regulatory frameworks’ revision to maintain their effectiveness.
Moreover, Prof. Barikor pointed out the importance of developing comprehensive import and export regulations to fulfill Nigeria’s international obligations under various multilateral environmental agreements. This step is crucial for ensuring the country’s safety in chemical, pharmaceutical, and energy-related trade.
In her Goodwill message, Rebecca Chudaska, Associate Expert at UNEP, affirmed the organization’s continued support for NESREA’s waste management initiatives, including the provision of technical expertise and capacity building. This collaboration is envisioned to mark the start of a new era in Nigeria’s environmental stewardship, characterized by innovation and a commitment to complementary economic prosperity and environmental sustainability.