LAGOS, Nigeria(VOICE OF NAIJA)- Clean Air Quality and Energy Manager at the Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives, Mr. Weyinmi Okotie, has raised alarm over increasing air pollution in Lagos State, urging authorities to act quickly to protect both residents and the environment.
In a recent interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos, the environmental expert triggered fresh concerns about climate, warning that rising pollution levels could harm public health if urgent policy steps are not taken.
His concerns follow recent air quality figures released by the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA).
Earlier this week, LASEPA reported that air quality across Lagos was mostly within moderate to good levels as of 10:00 a.m. on April 20. However, some locations showed worrying signs. Arepo, along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, recorded the highest Air Quality Index (AQI) of 60.1, a level considered unhealthy for sensitive groups.
READ ALSO: ILO Report Links Workplace Stress To 840,000 Deaths Each Year
The agency explained that areas like Arepo and the Lagos-Ibadan corridor are experiencing higher pollution due to traffic congestion and intense human activities.
Meanwhile, Oshodi Bus Terminal and Abiola Garden recorded moderate levels with AQI values of 22.6 and 20 respectively, while Oyingbo Red Line Station, Admiralty Way, and Ojuelegba Bus Terminal showed good air quality.
LASEPA’s headquarters had the cleanest reading with an AQI of 5.
Reacting to the figures, Okotie described the situation in Arepo as concerning. He linked the pollution spike to heavy traffic and emissions from old diesel trucks and commercial vehicles.
According to him, weak regulation of freight transport and constant gridlock continue to worsen air quality in that corridor.
Therefore, he called for stronger enforcement of vehicle emission rules and suggested moving more cargo transport to rail systems.
At the same time, Okotie praised LASEPA for maintaining transparency in its air monitoring efforts.
He noted that real-time, location-based AQI data is vital for making informed climate and public health decisions.
READ ALSO: Veteran Journalist Shola Oshunkeye Celebrates 70 With Colloquium Book Launch
The environmental expert also welcomed Nigeria’s shift to lower sulphur fuel, saying it plays a key role in cutting harmful emissions.
Still, he stressed the need to remove older, high-polluting vehicles from the roads more quickly.
Furthermore, the expert pointed to urban planning challenges as another major factor.
He emphasized the importance of reducing traffic congestion and increasing green spaces across the city.
Okotie highlighted the impact of widespread generator use in homes and businesses, warning that reliance on petrol and diesel generators adds significantly to pollution levels, especially during peak usage periods.
He added that “good” AQI ratings may not always reflect these spikes.
To tackle the problem, he urged the government to promote cleaner energy options such as solar power and inverter systems through incentives and supportive policies.
He maintained that stronger action based on available data could help Lagos reduce pollution risks, improve public health, and move closer to climate-friendly urban living.
(NAN)
