Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has cautioned hotel owners against delaying the implementation of the Anambra State Homeland Security Law 2025, emphasizing that ignorance of the law will not be accepted as an excuse.
Speaking during a compulsory interactive summit with hospitality business operators at the Government House in Awka, the governor, represented by his deputy, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, underscored the importance of full compliance with the law to enhance security in the state.
The law mandates hotel owners to verify and document guests’ identities, install surveillance cameras to monitor movements, and submit recorded data to the appropriate authorities. Failure to comply, as stipulated in Section 14, subsections 5 and 6, is considered a criminal offense, punishable by up to six months in jail, a fine of one million naira, or both.
Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism, Comrade Don Onyenji, explained that the summit was jointly organized by his ministry, the Anambra State Internal Revenue Service, the Ministry of Homeland Affairs, and the state security network to ensure all stakeholders understand their roles in strengthening security.
The State Chairman of the Hotel Association of Nigeria, Chief Ifeanyi Nwokoye, represented by his vice, Mr. Taiwo Ogunshola, assured that hotel owners would cooperate with the government in tackling security challenges.