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FG Tackles Improper Disposal of Used Batteries, Launches Battery Control Regulations
FG Tackles Improper Disposal of Used Batteries, Launches Battery Control Regulations
By: Michael Mike
The Federal Government has launched the National Environmental (Battery Control) Regulations 2024 to check against improper disposal of used batteries in the country.
The government said the regulations becomes imperative as the improper handling, which include collection, recycling and disposal of used batteries, has presented serious environmental and health challenges.
Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal who launched the regulations in Abuja on Thursday, said Ecosystems around these battery recycling facilities have been polluted and waste lead is often dumped indiscriminately in unauthorized locations without proper permits.
The launching was organized by the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) with the support of European Union and Germany.
The Minister, represented by the Director Pollution Control and Environmental Health in the Ministry, Usman Bokani, said the newly launched Regulations thus provides the necessary legal framework to enforce compliance and ensure that Nigeria continues to protect both the environment and public health.
He said: “The National Environmental (Battery Control) Regulations specifically tackles the challenges posed by informal recyclers and unregulated battery collection, recycling and disposal practices. These Regulations seek to formalize the battery recycling sector, promote safe disposal methods, minimize environmental pollution and promote the implementation of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programme for the battery sector in Nigeria.

In his opening remarks, Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Environment, Hon Julius Gbabojor said improper disposal and management of batteries pose a significant threat to our environment and public health.
Represented by his vice, Hon. Terseer Ugbor, he said the new regulation is timely and crucial as it sets out comprehensive guidelines for the proper handling, disposal, and recycling of batteries.
“It places responsibility not only on manufacturers but also on consumers, encouraging a shift towards more sustainable practices. By enforcing these regulations, we are taking a significant step towards minimizing the environmental impact of battery waste and promoting a circular economy where resources are reused and recycled.”
In her goodwill message, the Executive Secretary of the Alliance for Responsible Battery Recycling (ARBR), Mrs Miranda Amachree, said the Regulations spell out specific requirements and guidelines for the usage, collection and recycling of used batteries in line with the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) program.
Earlier in his welcome address, Director-General, National Environmental Standards and Regulations Agency, Dr. Innocent Barikor said the agency’s enforcement efforts in the past have not been fully effective in the regulation and control of the battery sector due to the lack of an encompassing specific legislation that would holistically address emerging complexities and challenges in the Battery Sector.
He said the enforcement of this germane Regulation would help address the gaps in the abatement of unsound environmental practices in the entire Battery value chain, as well as prevent possible adverse health impacts on the target population especially women and children who are vulnerably involved in the mishandling of batteries especially Used Lead Acid Batteries (ULABs).
“Continuous misuse or mishandling of these ULABs exposes users to severe health challenges by reason of the highly hazardous chemicals or materials contained such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and lithium, amongst others. These hazardous chemicals affect multiple human body systems including neurologic, hematologic, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular and renal systems.
“Furthermore, the launch of this Regulations today will not only sensitise the Nigerian public on its emergence but will popularise its essence within the Nigerian environment and lay a firm foundation for a sustainable and responsible approach towards addressing the challenges of improper used battery management in the country.”
Head of programme, Nigerian Energy Support Programme, NESP, Mr Duke Benjamin, said NESP will continue to provide technical support and capacity development to various NESREA and battery recycling facilities’ in collaboration with the Ministry of environment.
‘’This mile stone will go a long way in regulating the activities of the battery waste disposal industry and identifying the roles of relevant stakeholders whose efforts would greatly contribute to reducing the release of toxic chemicals in the atmosphere along different levels of the value chain.’’ He said.
FG Tackles Improper Disposal of Used Batteries, Launches Battery Control Regulations
News
Troops Repel Terrorist Infiltration in Kanama, Neutralise Four Insurgents
Troops Repel Terrorist Infiltration in Kanama, Neutralise Four Insurgents
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have repelled a Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorist infiltration into Kanama town, neutralising four insurgents during a swift response operation in Borno State.
Security sources said the incident occurred at about 6:00 p.m. on April 22 when troops of 159 Battalion, deployed in Kanama, responded to sounds of gunfire within the town.
On arrival, the troops reportedly discovered that terrorists had infiltrated parts of the community.
The troops immediately made contact and engaged the attackers with disciplined fire, forcing them to retreat in disarray.
Subsequent exploitation of the general area led to the neutralisation of four terrorists.
One member of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) sustained injuries during the encounter and has been evacuated for medical attention.
No military equipment was lost during the operation.
Items recovered from the terrorists include two torchlight mobile phones and the sum of ₦21,000.
Security sources said the general situation across the theatre remains calm but unpredictable, while troops’ morale and fighting efficiency remain high.
Troops Repel Terrorist Infiltration in Kanama, Neutralise Four Insurgents
News
Dramatic Testimony Rocks Nwaukoni Terrorism Trial In Asaba — Doctor Confirms Gunshot Wounds In Palace Attack Case
Dramatic Testimony Rocks Nwaukoni Terrorism Trial In Asaba — Doctor Confirms Gunshot Wounds In Palace Attack Case
The high-profile terrorism trial in Charge No. FHC/ASB/18C/2024 took a dramatic and gripping turn this week at the Federal High Court, Asaba, as explosive evidence and powerful witness testimonies continue to unfold against Mike Nwaukoni (aka “Supu”) and his alleged accomplices.
Standing trial alongside him are prominent figures including Barrister Francis Okolie, Secretary of the Ogwashi-Uku Development Association (ODA), and Mazi Elue Adigwe, the association’s Secretary-General, among others accused in connection with the violent October 12, 2023 attack on the Palace of the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku.
🔴 Doctor’s Testimony Leaves Court in Silence
In what court observers have described as one of the most chilling moments of the trial so far, Dr. Ezeike Ugochukwu Godwin took the witness stand and delivered a clinical yet deeply emotional account of the injuries sustained by a vigilante operative assigned to protect the Palace.
The doctor confirmed that the victim suffered multiple gunshot wounds, including injuries to the head and upper limbs, describing in precise medical terms the severity of the trauma.
According to his testimony, the victim was brought into the emergency unit in a state of intense pain and critical distress, alongside several others wounded during the attack.
Dr. Ezeike further told the court that the patient was referred from the Divisional Police Headquarters in Ogwashi-Uku, reinforcing the official chain of response following the violent incident.
🔴 Police Investigator Details Chaos and Destruction
A day earlier, on April 21, 2026, the court heard from Inspector Ijeoma Ovat, the initial Investigating Police Officer (IPO), who painted a harrowing picture of the aftermath of the attack.
She testified about the widespread chaos, multiple casualties, and destruction that followed the invasion of the Palace during the controversial Ineh Festival. Crucially, she tendered photographic evidence showing heavily damaged police and vigilante vehicles, corroborating claims of a coordinated and violent assault.
Sources within the prosecution confirm that the damage to the vehicles was extensive and consistent with armed aggression.
🔴 Witnesses Tie Defendants to Armed
AssaultEarlier testimonies in the trial have reportedly identified the defendants as active participants, alleging they were armed with guns and other dangerous weapons during the attack. Witnesses have also pointed to Mike Nwaukoni as a central figure who allegedly instigated and coordinated the operation.
🔴 Passport Request Sparks Legal Firestorm
In a fresh development that has further intensified proceedings, lead prosecutors in the case including CSP Samuel Mallum Esq and A.I Aminu Esq from the Police Legal Directorate in Abuja have strongly opposed an application by Nwaukoni’s legal team seeking the temporary release of his international passport for overseas travel.
According to sources, the prosecution argued that granting such a request poses a serious flight risk, warning that the defendant could attempt to evade justice, seek asylum, or acquire foreign citizenship.
The prosecution also suggested that the move may be a deliberate tactic to delay the trial, particularly as significant portions of the case have already been established.
The matter has been adjourned for further consideration, with hearings expected to resume in late May, continuing into early June 2026.
🔴 Calm Returns to Ogwashi-Uku Amid Trial
Meanwhile, community sources in Ogwashi-Uku report a notable return of peace and stability since the commencement of the trial. Residents have expressed hope that the judicial process will be seen through to a swift and just conclusion, bringing lasting closure to one of the most serious security incidents in the Kingdom’s recent history.
Dramatic Testimony Rocks Nwaukoni Terrorism Trial In Asaba — Doctor Confirms Gunshot Wounds In Palace Attack Case
News
Troops Intercept Suspected Terrorist Logistics Supplier, Seize PMS in Borno
Troops Intercept Suspected Terrorist Logistics Supplier, Seize PMS in Borno
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have arrested a suspected ISWAP/JAS logistics supplier and intercepted a large quantity of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) concealed in a tricycle in Borno State.
Security sources said the suspect was apprehended at about 9:10 a.m. on April 21 by troops of 159 Battalion at a checkpoint within Sector 2 Area of Responsibility.

The suspect was reportedly conveying PMS concealed in 15 sacks, disguised with bags of sachet water in an attempt to evade detection.
Preliminary investigations indicated that the consignment was being transported to Kanama town and neighbouring communities around Dikwa and Bultuwa, areas believed to be within terrorist influence.
Items recovered from the suspect include a mobile phone and the sum of ₦34,950.
The sources said the suspect and recovered exhibits are in military custody for further investigation and necessary action.
They added that the interception forms part of ongoing operations aimed at disrupting terrorist logistics networks and denying them access to critical supplies across the North-East theatre.
Troops Intercept Suspected Terrorist Logistics Supplier, Seize PMS in Borno
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