Nema orders closure of 8 entertainment joints over noise pollution

National Environment Management Director General Mamo Mamo/FILE

The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has ordered the closure of eight entertainment joints over noise pollution.

In a statement on Tuesday, Nema said the facilities failed to comply with requirements of a previous notice on noise pollution control.

“Following the issuance of a public notice on noise pollution control on September 18, 2025, Nema has today issued closure orders to facilities for failing to comply with the requirements listed in the previous environmental restoration orders issued to them,” the Authority said.

The Authority revealed that it has continued to receive noise complaints from the facilities even after being warned through earlier orders.

Nema directed the joints to close immediately, undertake an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), and obtain a license from the Authority.

They are also ordered to soundproof the facilities to mitigate noise pollution and undertake noise survey.

In September, Nema had threatened to close down at least 107 bars and clubs across the country over noise pollution.

The authority said this was after reception of numerous complaints from the public about loud music from clubs, lounges, bars and restaurants.

It explained that this came despite most of the affected facilities being served with Environmental Restoration Orders, which most have failed to comply with.

“Nema has been receiving public noise pollution complaints from the public regarding club/lounge, bar and Restaurants across the country. Several facilities have been served with Environmental Restoration Orders requiring them to provide environmental compliance documents but majority have failed to comply,” it said then.

At the time, the authority directed the violating establishments to submit requisite documents within a stipulated period of time.

These included their certificate of incorporation and list of directors, an Environmental Impact Assessment license, a current Environmental Audit, proof of noise control measures and reasons why they should not face legal action or closure.

Nema warned that facilities which fail to meet the requirements risk legal consequences, including closure.

Nema is established under EMCA to exercise general supervision over all environmental matters.

It is the principal instrument of government in the implementation of all policies touching on the environment.

To preserve and maintain public health and the environment, EMCA, under section 101, mandated Nema to develop standards and guidelines for the abatement of unnecessary noise.

The move ushered in the establishment of the Environment Management and Coordination (Noise and Excessive Vibration Pollution (Control) Regulations 2009.

The regulation gave Nema powers to enforce compliance in liaison with other relevant lead agencies and county governments.

Restoration orders can be issued by either a Nema inspector or a court of law.