NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL OZONE LAYER PROTECTION REGULATION

What Is This Policy?

Regulations implementing Nigeria's obligations under the Montreal Protocol by controlling the production, importation, exportation, and use of ozone-depleting substances (ODS) including chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), HCFCs, and halons.

Who Does It Target?

Importers and manufacturers of refrigerants, foam blowing agents, and solvents containing ODS Refrigeration and air conditioning technicians and companies NESREA as the enforcement authority Federal Ministry of Environment

What Does It Aim to Achieve?

To phase out the use of ozone-depleting substances in Nigeria according to the Montreal Protocol schedule, protect stratospheric ozone, reduce Nigeria's contribution to UV radiation increases, and transition to ozone-friendly alternatives.

Key Features

ODS Import Quotas: Annual import quotas for controlled ODS are set in line with Nigeria's phase-out schedule. Licensing of Importers: Only licensed importers may bring ODS into Nigeria. Technician Certification: Refrigeration technicians handling ODS must be certified and use approved recovery equipment. Phase-Out Schedule: Regulations prescribe a sector-by-sector timeline for eliminating ODS use. Penalties: Fines and imprisonment for unlicensed import or illegal use of prohibited ODS.

Current Status

In force. Administered by NESREA as Nigeria's Designated National Authority under the Montreal Protocol, with controls on ozone-depleting substance imports and phaseout timelines actively enforced.

Importers apply for ODS import licences from NESREA Refrigeration companies enrol technicians in NESREA-approved certification programmes Request quota allocations at the start of each calendar year Application method: NESREA headquarters, Abuja

Important Terms

ODS quotas are non-transferable Possession of unlicensed ODS above prescribed quantities is an offence Phase-out deadlines are binding; continued use after the deadline is prohibited

Official Resources

Website: www.nesrea.gov.ng Policy Summary Document | Federal Republic of Nigeria

Legal Framework

Issued under the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (Establishment) Act 2007 (NESREA Act), which empowers NESREA to make regulations on environmental standards. Operates alongside the Environmental Impact Assessment Act 1992, the 1999 Constitution Section 20 on environmental obligations, and relevant international environmental conventions ratified by Nigeria. Implements Nigeria's obligations under the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer and the Kigali Amendment. Operates alongside the ECOWAS Directive on the Control of Ozone Depleting Substances and the Federal Environmental Protection Agency Act.