FIC Report (Ogun State) – The Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment has directed the immediate closure of African Refractory and Allied Products Company (ARAP) in Ogun State following reports of unsafe working conditions.
The Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Dr. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, issued the directive after an inspection by the Ministry’s Occupational Safety and Health Department revealed significant risks to workers, including exposure to silica dust.
Dr. Onyejeocha explained that preliminary findings highlighted regulatory breaches, such as lapses in licence renewal and discrepancies between the company’s stated operations and its actual production activities. These issues fall under Section 30 of the Factories Act, which governs the protection of workers from harmful substances.
The closure of the facility is necessary to safeguard workers and prevent further health risks, welfare and safety of Nigerian workers remain non-negotiable.
The Minister instructed that a Prohibition Notice be issued to the company, pending a comprehensive investigation into its operations and compliance with safety standards.
She emphasised that the action is part of the Ministry’s broader mandate to enforce occupational health and safety regulations across industries nationwide.
Workers at the facility will be protected under labour laws, and the Ministry will ensure that proper procedures are followed during the investigation.
Dr Onyejeocha reiterated the government’s commitment to creating safe and secure workplaces for all Nigerians, warning that companies failing to comply with safety regulations would face strict penalties.
Signed
Akin Oguntosin
AD (INFOR. & PRO)
06/03/2026
