Video: Lagos collaborates with Interferry to boost waterway security
Abdullateef Fowewe
The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) has taken a bold step forward in enhancing ferry safety by partnering with Interferry, a leading international ferry safety organisation, to host a landmark conference aimed at improving waterway safety standards across West and Central Africa.
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Speaking at the conference on Monday, the General Manager of LASWA, Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, emphasised Lagos State’s commitment to maintaining and advancing safety on its inland waterways.
“When Central African countries approached Lagos to host this ferry safety conference, the Lagos State government immediately said yes. We have enjoyed a strong safety record on our waterways, and we want to build on that by collaborating with international partners who bring valuable knowledge and expertise,” Emmanuel said.
Speaking further he outlined several key safety protocols currently in place, aimed at protecting passengers and crew on the city’s bustling waterways.
Among the critical safety measures implemented according to him are the mandatory use of life jackets for all passengers, ensuring that every individual on board is equipped with essential personal flotation devices. Additionally, all boats undergo rigorous biannual inspections to maintain vessel integrity and operational safety.
Emphasising the role of innovation, the GM highlighted the integration of real-time monitoring technology and advanced communication systems on vessels stressing, “Technology is the future. We’re now able to monitor our vessels in real time and communicate with crews to ensure safety. Data collected helps us make informed decisions about where to focus safety efforts.”
He also unveiled the ambitious Omi Eko Project, which aims to revolutionise water transport in Lagos through the introduction of electric ferries, upgraded jetties, dredging of waterways, and capacity building.
“The electric ferries will complement, not replace, the current fleet. We are also encouraging informal operators to form cooperatives so they can benefit from government support,” he added.
When asked about Lagos’ safety record, Emmanuel was modest but confident saying, “We don’t want to blow our own trumpet. The media should tell us if Lagos is the safest state for water transport in Nigeria. But with over 50,000 daily passengers and growing, we believe our safety measures are effective.”
Speaking with journalists, the Chief Executive Officer of Interferry, Mike Corrigan, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership and the opportunity to bring global expertise to African waterways.
“It is impressive how far Lagos has come and how much further they want to go. We are here to share knowledge and provide guidance based on decades of experience in ferry safety worldwide,” Corrigan said.
He noted that Interferry represents nearly 300 members globally and is committed to expanding its support in Africa.
He stressed, “This is our third conference in the region, and we hope to return regularly to help improve safety standards across African waterways.”
