The Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, has described air pollution as a silent killer, saying it affects quality of life, agricultural output, public health, and general well-being.
The Minister made this known on Tuesday during the commissioning of the vehicular air emissions testing centre in Mararaba, Nasarawa State, in commemoration of the 2025 International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies, themed “Racing for Air.”
The International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies, focuses on finding solutions because every breath matters.
This year’s campaign highlights the urgency of action while shifting the narrative from problems to solutions.
According to the United Nations Environment Programme, air pollution is the second leading risk factor for death, causing around 8.1 million premature deaths annually from conditions such as stroke, heart disease, lung cancer, and acute respiratory infections.
The minister said the testing centre is established under the framework of the National Clean Air Programme in Nigeria.
According to him, the commissioning of the centre is not just about unveiling a structure or a piece of equipment; it is about unveiling hope for clean air, cleaner skies, healthier lungs, and a safer environment for all Nigerians.
“It is a testament to the renewed hope of the current administration and the desire to ensure that all Nigerians have access to clean air.
“Air pollution is a silent killer. It affects the quality of life, agricultural output, health, and well-being of all citizens. Air contamination does not discriminate; it affects children, the elderly, workers, the rich, the poor, and even unborn generations,” he said.
Also speaking, the Director of Pollution Control and Environmental Health, Dr. Bahijjahtu Abubakar, stressed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to environmental preservation.
She commended the Governor of Nasarawa State, Abdullahi Sule, for taking the pioneering step in what is expected to become a nationwide project.
“This centre is a collective responsibility of all the people gathered here. It is our project, and we must do all we can to ensure the safety of the equipment, because it is for our collective good,” she stressed.
