The Lagos State Government has announced that organisers of all traditional festivals across the state must obtain official approval before staging such events, as part of efforts to strengthen public safety, improve coordination and ensure orderly celebrations.
The directive requires communities, cultural groups and festival organisers to seek authorisation from the appropriate government authorities before holding traditional festivals, processions or other cultural gatherings within the state.
According to the state government, the policy is intended to enhance security, facilitate effective crowd management and prevent incidents that could threaten public peace during cultural celebrations.
Officials said the approval process would also enable security agencies and emergency response organisations to make adequate preparations for major events by deploying personnel, managing traffic and responding promptly to any emergencies that may arise.
The government noted that traditional festivals remain an important part of Lagos’ cultural heritage and tourism landscape, stressing that the new requirement is not designed to discourage cultural practices but to ensure that they are conducted in a safe and well-coordinated manner.
It explained that prior notification would allow relevant agencies to assess potential risks associated with each event and implement appropriate measures to protect participants, residents and visitors.
The state also urged organisers to comply fully with existing laws governing public gatherings, environmental sanitation, noise control and traffic management to minimise disruptions to surrounding communities.
Community leaders, traditional rulers and festival organisers were encouraged to work closely with government agencies throughout the planning process to ensure that celebrations are peaceful and successful.
Security experts have described advance planning and inter-agency coordination as essential components of managing large public events, particularly in densely populated urban centres such as Lagos, where festivals often attract thousands of participants.
The announcement follows the state’s continued efforts to strengthen public safety at social, religious and cultural events through closer collaboration between organisers, law enforcement agencies and emergency responders.
Residents have also been advised to cooperate with security personnel and adhere to safety guidelines during approved festivals to ensure smooth movement of people and vehicles throughout the duration of the celebrations.
The Lagos State Government reiterated its commitment to preserving the state’s rich cultural traditions while ensuring that public events are organised in a manner that safeguards lives, protects property and maintains public order.
As the new directive takes effect, stakeholders are expected to familiarise themselves with the approval process and engage the relevant authorities early enough to avoid disruptions to planned traditional festivals across the state.
