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LAGOS, Nigeria - The Lagos State government took action on Wednesday against 580 nightclubs and restaurants for violating indoor smoking laws in 2024, as part of its vigorous effort to enhance public health and enforce safety guidelines throughout the state.
The Director-General of the Lagos State Safety Commission,Lanre Mojola, made this announcement during the ongoing ministerial press briefing marking the second anniversary of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term.
He noted that the commission, which is the sole Safety Commission in Nigeria, inspected a total of 2,024 public venues last year, resulting in penalties for 580 establishments for smoking violations.
Mojola clarified that while some venues like nightclubs can allow smoking, it must be confined to designated areas.
He cautioned that smoking in public areas such as buses is prohibited and urged citizens to report such violations immediately. “Public smoking is banned, and legislation is already in place to enforce this.
Smoking is only allowed in designated areas within certain locations. If you observe individuals smoking in buses or confined spaces, report it right away. This is a significant public health concern,” he stressed.
He mentioned that the Commission initiated an anti-indoor smoking campaign in 2024 to raise awareness about the dangers of second-hand smoke, which can lead to cancer and other severe health issue.
“We need the media's assistance in promoting the message that indoor smoking is not permitted. Our campaign is straightforward ‘See it. Say it. Sort it’,” Mojola added.
In response to inquiries regarding the use of consultants by the Commission, Mojola explained that they were engaged to assist the agency due to limited staffing.
He acknowledged that some consultants had engaged in unethical practices. “We have identified some bad apples among them. Four have already received prison sentences for illegal activities. However, as Lagos continues to grow, we need to address capacity gaps,” he said.
During the briefing, the Commissioner for Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Relations, Mr. Olugbenga Oyerinde, highlighted the Lagos State Safety Commission's significant achievements over the past year.
He announced the successful implementation of the Lagos State Occupational Safety and Health Master Plan (2021–2026), created in collaboration with government agencies, professional organizations, and private partners.
He noted that the Commission also completed a safety roadmap for 2023 to 2026 and conducted a thorough review of over 40 safety documents that govern essential socio-economic sectors, including construction, manufacturing, event centers, markets, oil and gas, and waterways.
Oyerinde stated that the Commission carried out thorough safety audits across numerous construction sites, financial institutions, and manufacturing facilities.
He emphasized the inspection and certification of lifts and vertical transportation systems in government buildings as part of the agency's dedication to workplace and public safety.
He also mentioned a September 2023 safety seminar on sand mining and dredging, aimed at enhancing environmental sustainability and compliance with regulations in that sector.
“Safety is more than just a policy; it’s a culture. By prioritizing safe and sustainable practices, we protect both lives and the environment.”
