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The Pest Control Association of Nigeria (PECAN) and the Environmental Health Council of Nigeria (EHCON) have jointly called for full compliance with the newly introduced National Environmental Health Practice Regulations 2025, urging industry stakeholders to embrace a harmonised, multi-tiered regulatory framework that prioritises professionalism, public health, and environmental safety.
The call was made at the World Environment Day/Multi-Stakeholder Enlightenment and Engagement Forum, held at Radisson Hotel, Ikeja GRA, Lagos. Themed “Our Land, Our Future”, the event brought together key players in the environmental health ecosystem, including the Federal Ministry of Environment, Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Environmental Health Officers Association of Nigeria (EHOAN), and various state ministries and private sector leaders.
Delivering his keynote address, PECAN National President, PCO Olakunle Williams, described the 2025 regulations as “historic” and “transformative,” citing the shift from fragmented local licensing to a nationally coordinated framework.
“For decades, pest control licensing in Nigeria was predominantly managed at the local government level. While this offered grassroots accessibility, it created inconsistencies and enabled the proliferation of unlicensed practitioners. The 2025 regulations introduce a structured, multi-tiered system that ensures standardisation, safety, and professionalism,” Williams said.
He explained that under the new framework:
- EHCON is now the apex federal body responsible for national licensing and professional standards.
- State governments issue operational permits and ensure compliance.
- Local governments handle grassroots-level enforcement and advocacy.
This collaborative model, he noted, marks a “paradigm shift” from monopoly to partnership, and from regulatory fragmentation to a unified system that better protects public health and environmental integrity.
Speaking virtually, EHCON Registrar/CEO, Dr. Yakubu Mohammed Baba, applauded PECAN for its collaboration in advancing environmental health practices. He emphasised the importance of clearly delineating roles among regulators and service providers to avoid conflicts of interest.
“One cannot be both a regulator and a service provider. We must professionalise pest control through standardised services, regulated practices, inter-sectoral collaboration, and robust surveillance systems,” Dr. Baba stated.
He stressed that pest control is a strategic national disease prevention tool, referencing its role in mitigating diseases such as Lassa fever and malaria. He called for increased public awareness and stronger partnerships to advance environmental health goals.
Also addressing the gathering, Managing Director of LASEPA, Dr. Babatunde Ajayi, reiterated the Lagos State Government’s commitment to environmental protection through existing laws mandating regular fumigation. However, he acknowledged challenges in enforcement, urging collaboration with the public and the use of whistle-blower channels to report violations.
“Our environmental laws are strong, but enforcement requires collective action. We’ve moved from punitive shutdowns to building sustainable relationships with stakeholders,” he noted.
The forum also featured insightful discussions on the National Environmental Health Guideline Regulations 2025, with stakeholders calling for better education, continuous professional development, and enhanced private sector participation.
Several dignitaries, including the Lagos State Commissioners for Environment and Water Resources and Local Government Affairs, were represented at the event. An award was presented to Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe as the Amazon of Environmental Health 2025, recognising her outstanding contributions to the sector.
PECAN remains committed to raising standards in pest and vector control through strategic partnerships, policy advocacy, and ongoing stakeholder engagement. The 2025 regulations represent a bold step towards a cleaner, healthier Nigeria.