The Ogun State Government has launched the Vehicular Emission Control Scheme to improve air quality and curb hazardous pollution from vehicles.
The initiative was officially flagged off on Friday at the Skating Ground, Post Office, Ibara, Abeokuta.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Ola Oresanya, announced that consultants from the Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA) would conduct emission tests and issue certificates to vehicle owners.
“If your vehicle is seen emitting smoke, you will be asked for your Vehicle Emission Certificate. That certificate will indicate what is wrong with your vehicle, and you will be given advice on what to do,” he said.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on OGEPA, Farouk Akintunde, emphasized that the scheme is a significant step toward reducing vehicular emissions’ negative impact on public health and the environment.
“The vehicular emission control scheme is a critical component of Ogun State’s efforts to tackle the challenges of air pollution. The scheme aims to reduce the emission of harmful pollutants from vehicles.
“We will organise training and capacity-building programmes for our enforcement officers to ensure effective monitoring and compliance,” he said.
The Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations), Bolanle Muritala, called for uniformity in the scheme’s enforcement and urged officers to avoid unnecessary confrontations.
Muritala also suggested broadening the initiative beyond vehicular emissions to include regulations on burning tyres, wood, and bushes.
Adding to the discussion, TRACE Commandant Seni Ogunyemi urged all road users to support the state government’s effort to create a cleaner, smoke-free environment.
The event saw participation from transportation unions, Vehicle Inspection Officers, So-Safe Corps, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, and consultants from the Emission Control Scheme.
The Ogun State Government remains committed to reducing pollution and safeguarding the health of its residents through effective environmental policies.
