Cinema, Event Centers, Hotels Risk NGN1m Fine Over Lagos COVID-19 Guidelines

Cinema, hospitality businesses, and event center operators are at risk of a NGN1 million fine as the Lagos State government has revealed guidelines for the reopening of these businesses that have been closed for more than five months. The guidelines come with a financial fine for entertainment businesses that float the protocol.

According to the Honourable Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Uzamat Akinbile-Yussuf, these entertainment businesses will operate half their capacity and ensure implementation of Lagos State COVID-19 measures among customers.

"The protocols and guidelines are meant to ensure the health and safety of all guests and staff in all the facilities involved," Akinbile-Yussuf said in a statement seen by AllNews.

[READ ALSO: Economy Decline Pushes Nigeria Towards Worse Recession In Decades]

Businesses Risk Fine If These Measures Are Not Adhered To

Hotels, Motels, Apartments, Suites, Inns, Guest Houses, etc; Tourism Enterprises like Event Centres and Food Establishments, like Restaurants, Eateries, Fast Food, Lounge and Bars, and Cinemas will be fined NGN1 million if they don't implement the following protocols;

- The entertainment businesses like Cinemas, hotels, motels, restaurants others must operate 50% capacity and nothing more. And guests must be 18-years and above.

- Ensure the compulsory use of face masks, regular hand washing, use of sanitisers, maintenance of social distancing, temperature check, encouragement of cashless transactions, disinfection of premises, and buildings among others.

- Cancel buffet serving arrangement. All guests must be made to sign a COVID-19 form at the reception that has the name, address, and phone number of guests for easy contact tracing purposes.

[READ ALSO: Update: 20 Key Takeaways From Nigeria's Six Percent Economy Decline]

- No in-dining Restaurants and Eateries. Customers should be offered a takeaway service. Ensure two metres spacing on the floor to guide their customers in physical distancing.

- Tourism enterprises such as Event Centres/Entertainment Places must hold a valid licence from @LagostourismO prior to holding an event, in addition to an Event Safety Clearance from @safety_lasg.

- Event centres have a duration of three hours for all social events. Event Centres sitting arrangement must also comply with the two metres physical spacing. All tables must be set at least five meters apart in order to maintain a safe distance and free movements.

- Operation of all cinemas within the State must not exceed the hours stipulated by the government to ensure compliance with the 10 p.m to 4 a.m curfew directive.