Industrial battery recycling activities in Ogijo, Ogun State, have raised significant public health concerns due to heavy metal contamination, according to a recent study by Nigerian and South African researchers. The study, titled “The Impact of Heavy Metal Contamination in Soils on Soil Microbial Communities and Its Potential Health Risks for Humans,” found high levels of lead, cadmium, mercury, and other metals in soils around recycling sites, posing severe risks to nearby communities.
The researchers, including Olaniyi Popoola, Olusola Ogundele, Abayomi Ladapo, and Samson Senbore from Nigeria, and a collaborator from South Africa, discovered that these contaminants persist in soil and dust, gradually entering the food chain and water supply. This puts children and pregnant women at increased risk of neurological damage, cognitive delays, and developmental challenges. Adults may also suffer long-term health issues, including kidney damage and hypertension.
The study highlights the urgent need for public health intervention, as metal accumulation in crops, water sources, and soil creates multiple pathways for exposure. Without swift action, residents may continue to record elevated blood lead levels, facing serious long-term health consequences. The researchers emphasize that environmental science can support meaningful solutions by monitoring contamination patterns, understanding metal persistence in soil, and identifying early biological indicators.
This warning comes amid increased calls for government action, following the shutdown of seven factories in Ogijo by the Ogun State Government in November 2025 over suspected lead poisoning. The Federal Government had also sealed two other facilities for serious violations of occupational safety and health standards. The Nigerian Senate has described the situation as a “widespread and scientifically verified lead-poisoning disaster” in Ogijo.
The study’s findings underscore the need for rapid action to protect communities from lifelong health consequences. By designing targeted public health interventions and protecting vulnerable groups from further harm, authorities can mitigate the risks associated with heavy metal contamination. As the situation continues to unfold, it is essential for stakeholders to prioritize the health and well-being of those affected and work towards a comprehensive solution to address the environmental and health impacts of industrial battery recycling activities in Ogijo.