COVID-19: Lagos releases guidelines for reopening of cinemas, hotels & bars  

The Lagos State government has released guidelines and protocols for the reopening of cinemas, hotels, bars and other tourism and hospitality businesses amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Uzamat Akinbile-Yussuf said that the guidelines were issued as the state prepares to reopen its economy.

She added that the protocols and guidelines were being set to ensure the health and safety of guests and staff of such facilities in a bid to stem the possible spread of the deadly virus.

According to her, “The rules will affect all accommodation establishments such as hotels, motels, apartments, suites, inns, guest houses among others

“The guidelines state that it is mandatory for all and sundry to put on a face mask, wash their hands, use hand sanitizers, maintain social distancing, submit themselves for temperature checks, encourage cashless transactions and disinfect all premises and buildings before reopening/allowing guests in.

“Hotels, motels, suites inns, guest houses must operate at 50% capacity so as to maintain physical distancing, dining tables must be separated.

“All guests above 18 years old visiting hotels are expected to sign a COVID-19 form at the reception with the guests’ name, address and phone number for easy contact tracing.

“Restaurants and eateries owners are expected to put two metres spacing on the floor to customers on the physical distancing safe measure.

“Fast food outlets and eateries are still expected to maintain take-away services.

“Event centres and owners of event centres and entertainment spaces must hold a valid licence and also have a event safety clearance form from the government.

“Occupancy for any event must not exceed 50% maximum capacity of the hall with a maximum duration of three hours for all social events.

“Sitting arrangement for event centres must also comply with the two metres physical spacing.

“All tables must be arranged five metres away from each other to maintain safe distance and free movements,” she added.