The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), in partnership with Interferry, the global ferry association, has officially commenced an 18-month ferry safety development and mentoring program for 50 ferry professionals.
Speaking at the launch event, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Blue Economy, Damilola Emmanuel, emphasized the historic nature of the initiative. He stated: 'Today, we are not just launching a program; we are making history with Africa's very first Ferry Safety Development and Mentoring Program. Once again, Lagos sets the pace for the continent.'
Emmanuel highlighted the importance of the Blue Economy to the administration's vision for Lagos. He noted that ensuring the safety of waterway passengers is both a duty and a calling. 'Over the next 18 months, fifty exceptional ferry professionals will embark on a transformative journey of training and mentorship, guided by world-class experts from Interferry and Nigeria's leading maritime institutions. Among them are captains, deckhands, marine engineers, safety officers, and fleet managers each vital to our mission,' he added.
The program features a structured hybrid training approach that combines self-paced learning, dynamic online mentorship, and hands-on practical sessions. Emmanuel stressed that this initiative would ignite a new era of safety culture on Lagos's waterways. He also noted that Interferry's consultative status with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) guarantees that training meets global standards.
The fifty participants were reminded that they bear both great honor and profound responsibility. Program Coordinator, Engineer Ukeme Sunday, explained that leadership training was intentionally included, as technical knowledge must be complemented by the ability to manage people and enforce safety procedures.
Speaking on behalf of Interferry, Mrs. Shari Corrigan revealed that the training modules were developed after a team from Interferry visited Nigeria to study the Lagos lagoon. The materials were tailored based on observations made during that visit.
In a goodwill message, Commander Samuel Iluyemi commended the partnership, stating that it reinforces the position that safety is a key pillar in water transportation.
