All churches and mosques in Enugu State are required by the government to remove outdoor loudspeakers and implement soundproofing measures within their places of worship within the next 90 days. This decision was made following a stakeholders’ meeting that took place on Thursday with Christian and Muslim leaders, as well as government representatives, to discuss the enforcement of the Enugu State Anti-Noise Pollution Policy.
The meeting, facilitated by the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority, was attended by church leaders, media professionals, government officials, and Muslim leaders in the state.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Uche Anya, the Chairman of Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority, announced the ultimatum.
He stated, “Within the next three months, all churches and mosques are required to remove outdoor loudspeakers and commence the installation of soundproofing (acoustic) materials in their places of worship.”
In line with the urban renewal policy introduced in 2023, the government had previously instructed all nightclubs, bars, and other entertainment establishments to address their noise pollution concerns, especially in residential areas within the capital city.
During discussions with stakeholders, Anya emphasized that noise pollution is a major issue within the state.
He expressed his concern that his office had received over 1,000 complaints regarding noise pollution from various churches, mosques, and businesses in residential areas.
“During my one-year tenure in this position, we have received over a thousand complaints related to noise pollution.
“Communities from Independence Layout to GRA, from GRA to Trans-Ekulu, from Trans-Ekulu to Agbani Road, from Agbani Road to Abakpa Nike, from Abakpa Nike to Ugwuaji, and beyond are all affected by noise pollution, causing distress to the residents,” he remarked.