The Federal Government of Nigeria has inaugurated a Vehicular Emissions Testing Centre in Mararaba, Nasarawa State, marking a significant step toward improving air quality through stringent vehicle maintenance, emissions regulation, and global environmental compliance.
At the commissioning ceremony on Monday, coinciding with the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies 2025, Minister of Environment Balarabe Lawal described the facility as a cornerstone of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP).
“This is not just about unveiling a building or equipment; it’s about unveiling hope for cleaner air, healthier lungs, and a safer environment for all Nigerians,” Lawal stated.
He emphasized the severe impact of air pollution, calling it a “silent killer” that affects everyone—children, the elderly, workers, and future generations.
“Air pollution contributes to respiratory issues, heart attacks, strokes, and is now linked to autism, Alzheimer’s, schizophrenia, and dementia,” Lawal noted.
He stressed the urgency of addressing this crisis, stating, “Since there is no alternative to the air we breathe, we must act decisively to ensure it meets acceptable standards.”
The centre will serve as a hub for scientific testing, research, and policy enforcement, supporting Nigeria’s climate commitments, public health goals, and sustainable development objectives.
Bahijjahtu Abubakar, Director of Pollution Control and Environmental Health, praised Bhustan Energy, the project’s principal partner, and the Nasarawa State government for their collaboration.
“Clean air is a right, not a luxury,” she said, urging vehicle owners to utilize the centre’s emissions testing services. She also announced plans for a robust IT training program for Vehicle Inspection Officers to strengthen the initiative.
Abubakar acknowledged the contributions of development partners, including UNIDO, UNEP, OXFAM, and UNDP, for their intellectual and technological support.
Rotimi Olatunde, representing Bhustan Energy & Environmental Services Limited, expressed pride in their role, noting that the centre will generate real-time data and test for carbon dioxide and other substances to issue compliance certificates.
The initiative positions Nasarawa State as a model for Nigeria’s fight against air pollution, aligning with the government’s commitment to cleaner skies and healthier communities.
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