The Lagos State government has taken a strong stance on safety, shutting down over 840 event centres and social facilities in the past year. This action follows inspections that revealed numerous safety violations and non-compliance with existing regulations.
Gbenga Oyerinde, the Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, announced the crackdown during a press briefing. He emphasized that the move aligns with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES Plus agenda, which prioritizes risk mitigation and public safety.
The Lagos State Safety Commission conducted inspections on approximately 7,819 facilities. While over 5,200 received fire safety compliance certificates, a staggering 840 fell short of safety standards and were subsequently sealed.
This initiative comes in the wake of fire and safety incidents that have unfortunately resulted in casualties and property damage. The Commissioner highlighted the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service’s efforts, rescuing 376 victims and preserving properties valued at N152.22 billion in the past year.
The sealing of event centres underscores the Lagos State government’s commitment to public safety. Businesses will need to ensure they comply with safety regulations to avoid closure. This can be achieved through collaborations with the Lagos State Safety Commission to identify and rectify any potential hazards.
The move is likely to have a significant impact on the event industry in Lagos. Event centre owners will need to prioritize safety upgrades to meet compliance standards and resume operations. This can be seen as a positive step towards creating safer event spaces for residents and visitors in the bustling metropolis.
