Director-General, Lagos State Safety Commission, Mr. Lanre Mojola
LAGOS, Nigeria – Lagos authorities have ordered hotels, restaurants, nightclubs and event centres to immediately strengthen hygiene and disease prevention measures amid growing concerns over Ebola outbreaks in parts of East and Central Africa.
The precautionary directive comes despite the absence of any confirmed Ebola case in Lagos or elsewhere in Nigeria.
In an advisory issued on Tuesday, the Lagos State Safety Commission said the state’s status as a major international travel and commercial hub requires proactive measures to prevent any potential public health threat.
“There is currently no confirmed case of Ebola within Lagos State or Nigeria; however, the city’s status as a major international travel hub and commercial epicentre necessitates immediate, proactive measures,” the commission stated.
Director-General of the Lagos State Safety Commission, Lanre Mojola, directed hospitality operators to reinstall handwashing stations and alcohol-based sanitisers at entrances and public areas.
The commission also ordered more frequent cleaning of high-touch surfaces, including door handles, countertops, payment terminals, menus and handrails.
Operators were instructed to establish temporary isolation areas for anyone displaying symptoms of severe illness while awaiting medical attention.
In addition, businesses have been advised to reduce overcrowding, improve ventilation systems and conduct regular health screenings for employees.
“Mojola urged all operators to remain calm, vigilant, and fully cooperative,” the statement said, adding that inspectors would intensify monitoring visits across the state.
The advisory follows reports of a worsening Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, where the World Health Organization has recorded dozens of deaths linked to the Bundibugyo strain of the virus.
Health officials say early preparedness remains one of the most effective tools for preventing the spread of highly infectious diseases.
