Nigeria acts on air pollution after ranking third most polluted in Africa
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The Nigerian federal government responded to a recent report identifying Nigeria as the third most polluted country in Africa by announcing new steps to control vehicle and generator emissions.
Minister of Environment Balarabe Abbas Lawal revealed the government’s plans at the 2026 International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies. He connected Nigeria’s declining air quality to factors including population growth, increased transportation, industrial activity, and the continued use of polluting fuels.
The Ministry of Environment is creating a national framework to allow states to set up vehicle and generator emissions testing centers, adhering to national standards. The government also intends to expand the transition to compressed natural gas (CNG) for transportation and achieve universal access to clean cooking energy by 2030 through the National Clean Cooking Policy.
Lawal also stated the ministry is building a national air quality management policy and a clean air program for young people, and is encouraging businesses to use cleaner technologies. The government has already established air quality monitoring stations in Lagos, Kano, and Port Harcourt, and plans to release real-time data via a mobile app. Lawal emphasized that addressing the crisis requires participation from the private sector, civil society, researchers, the media, and young citizens.
