Telecom Companies Urged Against Mast Falling, Oil Spillages In Osun
Telecommunication Companies operating in Osun State have been urged to guide against the rampant mast falling, oil spillages on mast sites and noisy power-generating sets.
The appeal was made by Ms. Morenike George-Taylor, Director of Operations and Project Management at Global Transactions Nigeria Limited, while speaking with journalists in Osogbo recently on the importance of environmental impact assessment reports for masts in the state.
George-Taylor explained that the rate of mast falling and the noise pollution was too alarming.
According to her, “We hear the news of masts falling, oil spillages on mast sites and noisy generators. Protecting the environment, whether from noise pollution, contamination or otherwise is something that should concerns us all.
“It’s about keeping our homes, our families, and our future safe. in Osun State, the telecommunications industry has grown rapidly, bringing us better connectivity and opening doors for economic opportunities. However, with this growth also comes the responsibility to make sure that our progress does not harm the environment or the people who live in our communities.
“We have had incidents where masts are falling and this has an impact on the host community. This is why we have NESREA and why telecommunications companies are required to carry out Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) before masts are erected.
“This is also where the Osun State Environmental Protection Law of 2022 (as amended) comes in, saying the law emphasizes that every telecommunication project like the installation of masts must follow proper procedures, including carrying out an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). An EIA is not just a formality; it is a careful study to make sure projects are safe, sustainable, and beneficial for everyone,” Ms George-Taylor said.
She opined that, “Telecommunication companies play an important role in our daily lives. But as they build, they also need to think about the safety of the people living near these structures and the long-term impact on the environment.
“That’s why the Environmental Impact Assessment is so important—it protects lives, property, and ensures that development benefits everyone, not just today but for generations to come.”
“Oversight of telecommunication infrastructure in Osun State lies with the Ministry of Environment and Sanitation, but collaboration extends beyond the state. ”
“The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) has the direct responsibility for ensuring Environmental Impact Assessments are carried out and properly enforced across Nigeria.
“Alongside NESREA, the Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC) plays a key role in regulating the telecommunications sector to ensure that safety, compliance, and quality are upheld,” she added.
Yusuf Oketola is a trained journalist with over five years of experience in the media industry. He has worked for both print and online medium. He is a thorough-bred professional with an eye of hindsight on issues bothering on social justice, purposeful leadership, and a society where the leaders charge and work for the prosperity of the people.
