Ebola threat: Lagos issues precautionary advisory to hospitality, social centres

The Lagos State Safety Commission has issued a precautionary advisory to operators of hospitality and social establishments across the state following renewed global concerns over the Ebola virus outbreak in parts of Central and East Africa.

Director-General of the Commission, Mr. Lanre Mojola, said the advisory became necessary in view of recent international health alerts and the Federal Government’s decision to strengthen biosecurity screening measures at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport.

Mojola, however, reassured residents that there is currently no confirmed case of Ebola in Lagos State or anywhere in Nigeria.

He noted that despite the absence of any reported case, Lagos’ status as a major international gateway and commercial hub requires proactive measures to protect residents and visitors from potential health risks.

According to him, operators of high-density social venues, including hotels, nightclubs, event centres, lounges and restaurants, must take the lead in strengthening preventive measures due to the high level of close-contact interactions associated with their operations.

The Safety Commission boss directed all public and private establishments to immediately reinstate mandatory hand hygiene facilities at entry points and common areas.

These facilities, he said, should include running water and liquid soap or approved alcohol-based hand sanitisers.

He also urged facility managers to intensify cleaning and disinfection routines, particularly on frequently touched surfaces such as door handles, handrails, countertops, menus and payment terminals, using hospital-grade disinfectants.

Mojola further advised management teams to train frontline staff, housekeeping personnel and security operatives on recognising early signs of illness and responding appropriately to suspected cases.

He called for the implementation of daily health checks for employees and the enforcement of strict policies requiring workers exhibiting symptoms such as fever to stay away from work.

In addition, he directed hospitality establishments to designate temporary, well-ventilated isolation areas where patrons or staff who develop sudden severe illness can be safely held pending medical evaluation and evacuation.

The Director-General also urged operators to manage crowd sizes effectively to prevent excessive congestion and ensure adequate ventilation in enclosed spaces.

While calling for calm, Mojola stressed the need for vigilance and cooperation among operators, revealing that safety inspectors would intensify routine monitoring and support visits across the state to ensure compliance with safety guidelines.

He advised that any suspected case involving severe fever or related symptoms should be immediately isolated and reported to the Lagos State health authorities through the emergency hotlines: 08023169485, 08033565529, or the state’s dedicated safety line, 07000SAFETY.

Mojola reaffirmed the state’s commitment to safeguarding public health and maintaining a safe environment for businesses, residents and visitors.