The Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency, LASEPA has raised alarm over the rising tide of noise pollution in the state, revealing that over 600 of the 872 environmental complaints received in the past two years were directly related to excessive noise.
General Manager of LASEPA, Dr. Babatunde Ajayi, stated this during the 2025 International Noise Awareness Day, INAD celebration held at the agency’s headquarters in Alausa, Ikeja.
Blacktalker reports that the event, which featured a sensitization walk and fitness exercise, drew a large turnout of stakeholders, journalists, and members of the public.
Dr. Ajayi emphasized the health risks associated with noise pollution, ranging from hearing loss to cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure, and reduced productivity.
“This annual celebration is a clarion call to remind us of the grave consequences of noise pollution on human health, the environment and our overall quality of life,” he said.
The theme for this year’s INAD, “Protect Your Hearing, Protect Your Health: Act Now,” underscores the urgency of reducing noise levels across the state. Dr. Ajayi stressed the need for public compliance with approved noise standards, particularly in residential areas and commercial hubs.
Highlighting the Lagos State Government’s commitment to noise control, he noted the recent inauguration of a Special Task Force on Noise Pollution. He also said the team, operating under LASEPA’s supervision, is empowered to arrest and prosecute individuals, worship centers, entertainment venues and businesses violating permissible noise levels.
“We must prioritize the well-being of every resident. Our slogan remains: Less Noise, More Sense. Kill the Noise, Not the Music,” he declared.
Dr. Ajayi also announced that the Noiseless Lagos Advocacy Programme would be held on May 14, 2025, at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa, with the state’s Deputy Governor expected to chair the event.
He noted that the programme will serve as a platform for continued dialogue with religious leaders, entertainment operators, and other stakeholders.
Concluding his remarks, Dr. Ajayi urged all stakeholders from religious institutions and entertainment outfits to manufacturing industries and transport operators to adopt noise-reducing practices and technologies.
He hinted that in a bid to simplify regulation, LASEPA has digitalized its noise permit application process, allowing residents to obtain approvals for events online via the agency’s website.
“Let us work together towards achieving a quieter, peaceful, and more sustainable future,” he said.
International Noise Awareness Day, INAD was established by the Centre for Hearing and Communication (CHC) to raise awareness about the harmful effects of noise on hearing, health and quality of life.
Since its inception in 1996, INAD has grown to include participants in every groups in countries on virtually every continent around the globe.
