The Lagos State Government on Tuesday announced the implementation of stricter COVID-19 rules and regulations amidst the outbreak of Omicron, the latest variant of the deadly virus.
Governor of the state, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in a statement said all Lagosians will now be required to present their COVID-19 vaccination cards as a requisite to gain entrance to any social gathering during the December 2021 festive period.
For the unvaccinated persons, the governor said they will be required to produce a negative PCR within 72 hours of attending a social event.
Sanwo-Olu added that all individuals irrespective of their vaccination must undergo a Rapid Diagnostic test (Antigen).
In addition, the governor said all social event centres in the state must obtain an Event Safety Clearance from the Lagos State Safety Commission before holding an event.
These new guidelines are coming in the midst of several concerts and festivals scheduled to hold this December. The New Diplomat can report that Wizkid, Davido, Fireboy, Olamide, Buju, among other celebrities, are planning to hold their respective music concert shows this month.
All individuals planning to attend these events and other events in the state are now required to adhere to the new protocol.
The statement reads, “Everybody, irrespective of vaccination status, MUST be subjected to Rapid Diagnostic test (Antigen) to be conducted AT THE EVENT VENUE OR within 24hrs prior to the event at designated laboratories. (Request for rapid tests at the venue requires an application through the Safety Commission).
“All Social Events must be duly registered to obtain Event Safety Clearance from the Lagos State Safety Commission website prior to holding; and the guidelines set out below must be strictly adhered to.
“Where possible events should be held outdoors.
“Occupancy limit at any event must not exceed 60% of maximum design capacity of the event centre.
“Every attendee of a social gathering MUST present their Vaccination Cards or digital bar code page showing at least first dose but preferably double dose full vaccination.
“In unvaccinated people, a negative PCR within 72 hours will be an exemption.
“Everybody, irrespective of vaccination status, MUST be subject to Rapid Diagnostic test (Antigen) to be conducted AT THE EVENT VENUE OR within 24hrs prior to the event at designated laboratories. (Request for rapid tests at the venue requires an application through the Safety Commission).
“Under 18 years of age are unvaccinated and the above applies.
“Guests and service providers with high temperature (above 37.5) are to be politely turned back and referred to paramedics or the emergency response team on ground.
“All guests and service providers at the event must wear a nose mask or face shield before entry.
“All guests and service providers must endeavour to wash their hands before entering the venue or use hand sanitisers after which temperature checks should be carried out.
“Hand sanitisers to be positioned at the entry point and different spots within the venue.”
