The Lagos State Safety Commission (LSC) and the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) have launched a robust advocacy campaign to strengthen the enforcement of the state’s ban on smoking in public spaces.
Director-General of the LSC, Mr Lanre Mojola, emphasised the grave health risks associated with indoor smoking, such as lung cancer and respiratory illnesses. He highlighted the dangers of second-hand smoke in communal spaces like lounges and bars, underscoring the need for strict adherence to the Lagos State Anti-Smoking Law of 2014.
“Our goal is to create a safe, smoke-free environment for all,” Mojola stated, explaining the law’s provisions, which restrict smoking to designated areas not exceeding 10% of a venue’s physical space in places such as hotels, bars, lounges, and nightclubs. Smoking in public spaces, including schools, gyms, cinemas, and restaurants, is strictly prohibited.
With the festive season approaching, Mojola called for compliance from business operators and patrons.
“While enforcement will follow, the focus is currently on education and awareness through campaigns and stakeholder engagement,” he said.
Dr Babatunde Ajayi, General Manager of LASEPA, reiterated the importance of compliance, urging businesses to install smoke detectors, display clear signage, and refrain from selling cigarettes to minors or allowing smoking around children.
Penalties for violations range from fines of ₦10,000 to ₦50,000 for individuals and up to ₦500,000 for businesses, with stricter sanctions for repeat offenders.
Advocacy efforts have included public sensitisation campaigns and visits to establishments like Eko Hotels, where “No Smoking” signs were distributed. Both agencies reaffirmed their commitment to creating a healthier, smoke-free Lagos.
Meanwhile, the non-governmental organisation Protecting and Activating Communities against Tobacco (PACT) recently called for increased funding for effective enforcement of tobacco control measures.
Speaking during a recent advocacy march in Alausa, Ikeja, PACT’s project lead, George Adjete, highlighted gaps in awareness and enforcement of the Lagos State No-Smoking Law.
Adjete also commended the Federal Government’s increased investment in the Tobacco Control Fund, raised from ₦4.7 million to ₦10 million in the 2024 budget, but described the sum as insufficient. He called for clearer budgetary allocations for tobacco control at the state level to support the law’s implementation.
Tobacco use remains a leading cause of preventable deaths worldwide, with Nigeria reporting over 29,000 tobacco-related deaths annually, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).
The Lagos No-Smoking Law, alongside national tobacco control regulations, aims to safeguard public health by curbing exposure to second-hand smoke and reducing tobacco-related harm.
