The Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency has intensified efforts to combat noise pollution by engaging secondary school students through an inter-district debate competition held to mark the 2026 International Noise Awareness Day.
The event, held at Alausa, Ikeja, brought together students from across the six education districts in Lagos State under the theme “Protect Your Hearing, Protect Your Health,” with a focus on raising awareness about the impact of noise on public health and learning.
The final debate, titled “Technology and Noise: Who Bears the Responsibility and Consequences?”, saw participants interrogate the role of modern society in rising noise levels.
At the end of the contest, David Olufemi of Alimosho Senior Grammar School emerged overall winner with 373 points. Bello Awwal of Obele Community Senior High School came second with 368 points, while Onaolapo Olabiyi of Lagos State Senior Model College, Kanko placed third with 339 points.
Other finalists included representatives from Eva Adelaja Girls High School, Boys Senior Academy, and Army Children School.
Top performers are expected to be honoured at the agency’s upcoming Noiseless Lagos Advocacy Programme scheduled for May 12.
Speaking at the event, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Environment, Engr. Rotimi Akodu, described noise pollution as a growing public health concern rather than a mere disturbance.
Represented by a director in the Ministry of Environment, he cited global health data indicating that prolonged exposure to high noise levels could lead to stress, hypertension, and hearing impairment. He added that existing state regulations already set limits for acceptable noise levels, particularly in residential areas.
Also speaking, a representative of the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education noted that excessive noise has direct consequences for students, including reduced concentration and lower academic performance.
From the technology perspective, officials from the Ministry of Science and Technology highlighted the dual role of innovation, explaining that while it drives economic growth, it also contributes significantly to environmental noise through generators, transportation systems, and industrial activities.
In his remarks, the General Manager of LASEPA, Dr. Tunde Ajayi, said the initiative reflects a broader strategy to involve young people in environmental advocacy.
He noted that Lagos, as a densely populated and economically active state, faces increasing noise challenges that could affect quality of life, including sleep disruption and hearing-related issues.
According to him, the agency is expanding its awareness campaigns to include schools, religious centres, event organisers, and construction sectors, with the aim of promoting responsible behaviour.
The event also featured free hearing tests for participants, reinforcing the campaign’s focus on early awareness and prevention.
Stakeholders say involving students in conversations around environmental issues such as noise pollution could play a critical role in shaping long-term behavioural change across communities.
