LAGOS, MAY 21, 2025 – The Lagos State Government has penalised 580 nightclubs and restaurants for violating indoor smoking regulations in 2024, as part of its broader push to enforce public health and safety standards across the state. This was disclosed by the Director General of the Lagos State Safety Commission, Mr. Lanre Mojola, during the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre in Ikeja.
According to Mojola, the Commission inspected 2,024 public places last year, sanctioning 580 for indoor smoking infractions. He explained that while smoking may be allowed in certain facilities, such as nightclubs, it must be strictly confined to designated smoking areas. He also warned against smoking in public transport and other enclosed public spaces, urging citizens to report any violations. “This is a serious public health matter,” he stated.
The Commission, Mojola added, launched an anti-indoor smoking campaign in 2024 to raise awareness about the dangers of second-hand smoke, including cancer and other health risks. He emphasized the role of the media in promoting the message under the slogan: “See it. Say it. Sort it.” On concerns about consultants working with the Commission, he admitted that some had acted unethically, noting that four had already been imprisoned for illegal activities.
Also speaking, Commissioner for Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Relations, Mr. Olugbenga Oyerinde, highlighted the Commission’s key achievements. These included the completion of the Lagos State Occupational Safety and Health Master Plan (2021–2026), a safety roadmap for 2023–2026, and the review of over 40 safety regulatory documents. Oyerinde reaffirmed the state’s commitment to safety, describing it as “not just a policy but a culture.”
