FG shutdown African Refractory, Allied Products

2026-03-05 - 15:57

By Johnbosco Agbakwuru ABUJA — THE Federal Government has issued a prohibition notice and directed the immediate closure of African Refractory and Allied Products Company, ARAP. The directive issued by the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Dr. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha followed a recent inspection by the Occupational Safety and Health Department of the Ministry at the company’s facility located at Km 46, lkorodu-Sagamu Expressway, Ogijo, Ogun State. A statement issued by Annah Daniel, Head Press and Public Relations of the ministry, explained that the decision followed a series of reports indicating hazardous working conditions at the facility, particularly concerning workers’ exposure to silica dust and the associated health risks. The Ministry also said it received reports of workers paternity; which are currently under review as part of an on-going investigation. According to the statement, “preliminary findings further indicate regulatory concerns, including issues relating to licence renewal and discrepancies between the company’s declared operations and its current production activities; in line with the provisions of the Factories Act, particularly Section 30 which governs the protection of workers exposed to harmful substances.” Onyejeocha, directed the immediate shutdown of the facility pending a comprehensive investigation. The Minister noted that the action has been taken in the interest of protecting workers and preventing further risks. “A joint inspection and investigative team has been constituted by the Ministry to determine the full extent of compliance with Occupational Safety Standards,” the statement added. The minister stated that further directives will be issued upon conclusion of the investigation. She reiterated the Ministry’s zero tolerance for violations of occupational Safety and Health laws, stressing that the safety and welfare of Nigerian workers remains non-negotiable.