Yuletide: Events for over 250 attendees must be pre-registered, Lagos tells organisers

The Lagos government says it is mandatory for events featuring over 250 guests to be pre-registered with the state government.

Lanre Mojola, director-general of the Lagos safety commission, said this at a recent stakeholders’ meeting held at the Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island.

Mojola said pre-registration is necessary for safe operations and so as to prevent avoidable accidents and chaotic situations. 

He added that business owners who plan to host events, especially during the yuletide, need to consider the environment and safety of the people by obtaining the necessary permit from the state government. 

“The meeting became necessary considering the rate of reports of safety and pollution infractions received by the agencies in recent times,” he said.

“We have the approval of Mr. Governor to ensure that any event above 250 crowds should be registered with us, while crowds above 500 must not only register but have on the ground our trained safety marshals and representative of other relevant sister agencies to monitor, coordinate and prevent unseen situations.  

“Obtaining approval for a noise permit is sacrosanct to the issuance of our safety certificate.”

He listed the mandatory safety requirements for events to include: Fire safety prevention measures; deployment of certified health, safety and environment (HSE) personnel; professional handling of chemicals and other hazardous materials; the use of protective personal equipment; provision of multiple exits; adequate security; installation of informative signage to guide visitors; and engagement of licensed food handlers to prevent food poisoning.

Also, Dolapo Fasawe, general manager of the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), encouraged Lagos residents to comply with all environmental laws.

“We can make merry without making noise and be good neighbours and respect the right of others to a peaceful environment, particularly, within our communities,” Fasawe said.

“In as much as we cannot isolate the metropolitan city from social activities, hence the need to regulate our activities for a peaceful coexistence and harmonious working relationship.

“The government is not unmindful of the peculiarity of this season to your sector and that is why we are taking this step to ensure it is a win-win situation for us all.”