The Nigerian government has ordered the closure of True Metals Nigeria Limited and Phoenix Steel Mills Limited along the Ikorodu–Sagamu industrial corridor over serious violations of Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) regulations.

The closures followed an unscheduled inspection on Monday led by Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, accompanied by OSH officials from Lagos and Ogun states.

At True Metals, a battery recycling plant, workers were exposed to unprotected lead emissions, lacked automation equipment, and had inadequate sanitation facilities. Onyejeocha condemned the conditions, stressing that employment should never come at the cost of worker safety. The factory was immediately sealed until full compliance is achieved.

At Phoenix Steel Mills, the minister observed stagnant water, poor drainage, and impassable internal roads, violations of the Factory Act and clear indicators of unsafe working conditions. Access to the factory floor was blocked, and the facility was also shut pending corrective action.

The minister warned that enforcement would be strict, sustained, and non-negotiable, emphasizing that all workers—skilled or unskilled, male or female—deserve dignity, fair wages, and safety. She added that compliant companies would attract investment, while violators face closure.

“This era of exposing workers to degrading and dangerous conditions is over,” Onyejeocha said, reaffirming the government’s commitment to protecting workers’ rights and ensuring humane workplaces nationwide.