Lagos State government through the State Safety Commission and Environmental Protection Agency, LASEPA have launched an advocacy campaign to enforce the ban on smoking in public spaces.
In the last five years, the administration of Babajide Sanwo-Olu has continuously enlightened residents on the need to ensure a pollution-free environment and promised to recommit efforts towards a more safer state.
Director-General Safety Commission, Mr. Lanre Mojola said that it is important to reach out to the citizens to know the health implications of both indoor and outdoor smoking.
Mojola who highlighted the dangers of secondhand smoke in shared spaces like lounges and bars said the health risks of indoor smoking, including lung cancer and respiratory diseases.
“Our goal is to create a safe, smoke-free environment for all,” he stated, referencing the Lagos State Anti-Smoking Law of 2014, which mandates designated smoking areas not more than 10% of there physical space for hotels, lounges, bars and nightclubs and prohibits smoking in public spaces such as schools, gyms, restaurants, cinemas etc.
With the festive season approaching, Mr. Mojola urged compliance, emphasizing collaboration with business owners to ensure a healthy nightlife experience, while reiterating that proper enforcement will commence after engagement and awareness campaigns with the critical stakeholders.
The General Manager, LASEPA, Dr. Babatunde Ajayi, reiterated the importance of compliance, as he urged business owners to install smoke detectors, display clear smoking area signs, and adhere to laws prohibiting smoking near children or selling cigarettes to minors.
Penalties for violations according to him include fines up to ₦500,000 for businesses and ₦10,000 to ₦50,000 for individuals, with repeat offenders facing stricter sanctions.
Ajayi added that the agency has raised advocacy efforts include public sensitization via media and visits to establishments where “No Smoking” signs were distributed as he reassured of the commitment of both agencies towards safeguarding public health and creating a smoke-free Lagos.
Oyenike Oyeniyi
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