The Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) has intensified its advocacy against noise pollution.

The agency held its 11th annual Noiseless Lagos Campaign on Tuesday, with the theme, “Advancing Sound Control and Technology in an Emerging Smart City.”

The event focused on developing sustainable strategies to address rising noise pollution, particularly from religious centres.

Princess Oyekan Ismaila, permanent secretary at the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, urged residents to be responsible and considerate in managing noise in shared spaces.

“Our aim is to have a noiseless smart Lagos. We are conscious of our health, hearing and other vital organs. Our health and environment are essential to the developmental strides of Lagos State.

“We implore residents to be mindful of their neighbours and avoid polluting the environment with noise. That is why the governor and the Lagos State Government are advocating a noiseless city,” she said.

Dr Gaji Tajudeen, permanent secretary of the Office of Environmental Services, Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, commended LASEPA for sustaining the annual summit.

Mr Tajudeen, represented by Dr Olasunkanmi Sojinu, head of environmental assessment in the ministry, described noise pollution as a serious public health concern.

“Environmental nuisance has severe public health consequences, and pretending all is well in a noisy environment is to sign up for sudden death.

“We are pleased that LASEPA has continued to sustain this summit and its fight against noise pollution and other environmental nuisances.

“We must recognise that noise is not just a nuisance; it is a public health issue,” he said.

Adeyinka Sorongbe, permanent secretary, Ministry of Science and Technology, represented by Mrs Remi George-Ashiru, said technology offers tools such as real-time monitoring and artificial intelligence-driven sound management solutions to tackle noise pollution.

He said innovation must be matched with responsibility to build healthier and more liveable cities.

“Excessive noise affects public health, productivity and overall quality of life. Advancing sound control is not just a technical goal; it is a social and environmental imperative,” he said.

Mr Sorongbe said the ministry would continue to support research, innovation and partnerships aimed at promoting sustainable, people-centred technological solutions.

In his opening remarks, LASEPA General Manager, Dr Babatunde Ajayi, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to reducing noise pollution.

Mr Ajayi stressed that religious worship, school activities and business operations must be conducted within permissible noise limits.

He said the agency would continue to sanction religious bodies, schools and businesses that violate state noise regulations.

Reverend Dr Dele Ajayi, presiding chaplain of the Chapel of Christ the Light, Alausa, Ikeja, urged religious organisations to show empathy and moderation.

According to him, worship should be conducted in ways that do not disturb surrounding communities.

Chief Imam of Deji Oworu Mosque, Alapere, Imam Badmus Suleiman, also called for greater responsibility in managing noise pollution.

“Noise pollution is a menace, especially in schools and places of worship, and should be curbed,” he said.

The event featured a debate titled “Technology and Noise: Who Bears the Responsibility and Consequences?” involving students from Lagos State’s six education districts.

Modele David Olufemi of Alimosho Senior Grammar School emerged overall winner with 373 points.

Bello Awwal of Obele Community Senior High School, Education District IV, came second with 368 points, while Onaolapo Olabiyi of Lagos State Senior Model College, Kankon, Education District V, placed third with 339 points.

Free hearing tests were also conducted for some participants to assess possible hearing challenges.

(NAN)