The Lagos State Safety Commission (LSSC) and the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) jointly announced their commitment to enforcing indoor smoking regulations within nightclubs, bars, and lounges.
The revelation was made during a safety workshop organized for owners in the hospitality sector, specifically targeting nightclubs, bars, and lounges. The event, themed ‘Establishing a Safety Culture in the Night Life Sector in Lagos State,‘ was orchestrated by the Lagos State Safety Commission and took place on Victoria Island, Lagos.
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Mr. Lanre Mojola, the Director General of LSSC, emphasized the need for Nigerians to adhere to rules and regulations, particularly those aligned with international standards pertaining to smoking. He advocated for the creation of designated areas for smoking within hotels, ensuring that these spaces do not intrude on the relaxation areas for all patrons.
Mojola asserted, “There is no doubt, Lagos State will enforce indoor smoking at nightclubs, bars, and lounges because we should do our business as the law stipulates, but not as we want it to be done.” He underlined that the safety and health of residents are paramount to the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
Dr. Tunde Ajayi, General Manager of LASEPA, echoed Mojola’s sentiments, expressing support for the enforcement of indoor smoking regulations in these establishments. He acknowledged the challenges faced in the hospitality sector, where non-compliance with safety rules is prevalent, and reassured that relevant agencies would impose strict sanctions to address such issues.
Contributors at the workshop, including Mr. Ehi Iden, Occupational Health and Safety Manager, Mr. Yomi Ayoola, a hospitality consultant representing Expose Brands, and Alhaji Maijama’a Abdullaji from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), emphasized the importance of investing in training and capacity building for personnel in the hospitality industry. They suggested that monitoring and enforcement of global best practices would enhance service quality and compliance within the sector.
