The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has reportedly introduced a new policy proposal that would require owners of power generators in Abuja to pay fees for noise pollution.
A public notice recently spotted at a business premises in Zone 11, Abuja, suggests that the FCTA intends to regulate noise levels generated by private power supply equipment, particularly electricity generators widely used across the city.
Residents Express Concern Over Generator Noise Charges
The development has sparked reactions among residents and business owners, many of whom argue that generators remain essential due to unstable public electricity supply.
“In Abuja, generators are not a luxury; they are a necessity because power supply is not reliable,” said Chinedu Okafor, a small business owner in the city centre. “Charging people for generator noise without fixing electricity feels unfair.”
Several residents fear that the policy could place additional financial pressure on households and small businesses already struggling with high operating costs.
Unclear Implementation Details
As of the time of this report, the FCTA has not released official guidelines detailing:
- How the noise pollution fees will be calculated
- Which categories of generator users will be affected
- How enforcement will be carried out
The absence of clear information has increased anxiety among residents, with many worried about possible penalties or fines.
Environmental Concerns vs Power Reality
Environmental and urban planning advocates acknowledge that noise pollution is a legitimate concern in a densely populated city like Abuja. However, they stress that regulation should reflect the reality of residents’ dependence on generators for daily activities.
Some residents and stakeholders have called on the FCTA to first explore alternative measures, including:
- Incentives for solar and renewable energy adoption
- Improved public power supply
- Clear exemptions for small-scale users
Awaiting Official Clarification
The FCTA is yet to issue a formal statement clarifying the scope and timeline of the proposed generator noise regulation. Residents are urging the administration to engage the public and provide clear communication before implementing any fee-based policy.
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