The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), led by Minister Nyesom Wike, has begun enforcing environmental health fees on residents and businesses using generators, sparking widespread outrage as Nigerians continue to grapple with chronic electricity blackouts.

Notices issued by the FCTA Health Services and Environment Secretariat list charges for several compliance requirements, including noise pollution assessments and certificates, professional inspection reports, certificates of fitness for habitation or continued use, occupational health audits, and food handling permits.

The policy is rooted in the Environmental Health Practice Regulation 2024, which officials say is designed to monitor noise pollution and environmental hazards. Authorities defend the move as necessary for public health compliance.

Critics, however, argue the government is penalising citizens for coping with infrastructural failures. With many households and small businesses relying on generators due to irregular and costly grid supply, the new fees are seen as adding to operational burdens amid inflation.

Industry watchers warn that the charges could deepen economic strain, drive up prices, and reduce the viability of small and medium enterprises. One resident described the policy as “insensitive,” saying, “Charging for generators while power remains unreliable is punishing us for government failure.”

No specific fee amounts have been disclosed publicly, and enforcement details are still emerging. The initiative aligns with broader revenue drives but underscores Nigeria’s ongoing energy crisis, where average electricity supply remains around 4,500 MW for a population of 220 million.