By Seun Ibiyemi
The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) has announced the successful completion of the fourth module of its Ferry Safety Development and Mentoring Programme, with participants receiving practical training on marine engine systems.
The module, titled “Introduction to Engine Systems,” was delivered throughout August 2026 as part of efforts to strengthen the technical expertise and operational capacity of participants in the ferry and marine transportation sector.
The first two weeks featured self-paced learning facilitated by Engr. Jeremiah Akwemioh, a Nigerian Navy veteran with extensive experience in marine engineering and engine systems.
The third week featured an “Ask the Expert” virtual session with Interferry mentors Joep Bollerman, Vice President of Passenger Ships and Director of the Cruise Ship Center of Expertise at Lloyd’s Register, and Francesco Ruisi, Global Passenger Ship Segment Director at Lloyd’s Register.
The programme concluded with a practical onboard session aboard MV ONONEZE, an American Bureau of Shipping (ABS)-classed vessel owned by Fymak Marine & Oil Services Nigeria Limited.
According to LASWA, the vessel, equipped with four Cummins main engines, four propellers, a bow thruster and a combined output of 5,368 kilowatts (7,200 brake horsepower), provided participants with an opportunity to gain hands-on knowledge of marine engine operations.
The mentees also observed the operation of key auxiliary systems, including generators, purifiers, sewage treatment plants, air compressors and piping systems.
LASWA expressed appreciation to the management and crew of Fymak Marine, including Captain Aniekan Udo, Chief Officer Abiodun Erewa, Chief Engineer Emmanuel Ezekudo and Engr. Paul Etarijakpere, for providing practical operational insights during the training.
The authority also acknowledged the contributions of module facilitator Akwemioh and Interferry mentors Bollerman and Ruisi.
Module Five Begins in September
LASWA said the programme would proceed to its fifth module, “Safety Management Systems,” in September 2026.
The upcoming module will be led by Mike Corrigan, Chief Executive Officer of Interferry, providing participants with an opportunity to learn directly from one of the global leaders in the ferry industry.
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The authority said the continued support of Interferry, FerrySafe, the Lagos State Government, LASWA leadership and other partners remained critical to its capacity-building efforts in ferry safety.
It also acknowledged Shari Corrigan, Director of Conferences and Finance and Executive Sponsor, as well as Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Blue Economy, for their support.
LASWA said the programme was designed to raise standards in ferry safety and build stronger technical capacity within Lagos’ waterways transport sector.
