The past two weeks have been marked by tragic stampedes during events across Nigeria, leaving behind sorrow and raising urgent questions about the safety of large gatherings. These incidents, painful as they are, offer a crucial opportunity to address how we can better organize events to protect lives. As a nation, we must take proactive steps to ensure that safety becomes the bedrock of every event, whether indoors or outdoors. Here are a few recommendation from professional research and exposure.

**Essential Safety Guidelines for Event Organizers**

Organizing events with over 100 attendees requires meticulous planning, a focus on safety, and collaboration with relevant authorities. Here are some critical measures to adopt:

1. **Announce Emergency Exits Clearly and Frequently**
   – All venues must have well-marked and unobstructed emergency exits.
   – Announcements regarding the location of these exits should be made periodically during the event, especially at the start.
   – Signage should be visible and in multiple languages, where necessary, to cater to diverse audiences.

2. **Notify Fire Service and Other Emergency Responders**
   – Event organizers must notify the local fire service about the event and its expected attendance.
   – Fire marshals should be present to enforce compliance with fire safety regulations.
   – Pre-event inspections should be conducted to ensure the venue meets all safety requirements.

3. **Ensure CPR and First Aid Experts Are on Standby**
   – Employ certified CPR and first aid professionals to be available throughout the event.
   – Equip them with necessary tools like automated external defibrillators (AEDs), first aid kits, and other emergency response materials.
   – Conduct training sessions for staff and volunteers to handle minor emergencies until professionals take over.

4. **Provide Ambulances and Ensure Compliance with Road Regulations**
   – At least one ambulance should be stationed near the venue for immediate response in case of emergencies.
   – Collaborate with local authorities to ensure ambulances have unobstructed access to and from the venue.
   – Educate attendees on respecting ambulance right-of-way during emergencies.

5. **Crowd Management Plans**
   – Implement a robust crowd management strategy to control movement and prevent bottlenecks.
   – Employ trained security personnel to manage entry, exit, and internal movement.
   – Use barriers and designated pathways to guide the flow of attendees, ensuring they do not overcrowd any particular area.

6. **Pre-Event Risk Assessments**
   – Conduct thorough risk assessments to identify potential hazards and develop mitigation plans.
   – Simulate evacuation drills before the event to ensure readiness among staff and volunteers.

7. **Leverage Technology for Real-Time Monitoring**
   – Install surveillance systems to monitor crowd behavior and identify areas of concern.
   – Use communication systems to relay information promptly to attendees and staff.

**A Call to Action for Stakeholders**

To make these recommendations a reality, collaboration is key. Government agencies, private organizations, community leaders, and event organizers must work together to establish and enforce stringent safety standards for public gatherings.

Furthermore, the media has a role in educating the public about safety measures and holding event organizers accountable.

**Conclusion**

Safety is not a luxury but a necessity. By implementing these measures, we can reduce the risk of stampedes and other tragic incidents, ensuring that events are spaces for joy, connection, and celebration—not sorrow. Let us act now to prioritize safety in every gathering, no matter its size or purpose.

Together, we can create a culture of safety that honors the lives we seek to celebrate in our gatherings.

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**Hon. Olufemi Ibine** 
Environment Advocate and Lagos Grassroots Politician
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