By Seun Ibiyemi
The FerrySafe Programme has successfully completed Module 5: Safety Management Systems, further advancing efforts to strengthen safety standards, professional capacity and operational excellence across Nigeria’s inland waterways and the wider West African maritime sector.
The September 2026 module combined international mentorship with practical, field-based training, giving participants deeper knowledge of modern safety management systems and their application to ferry operations.
A key highlight was the “Ask the Expert” session held on September 23, featuring the Chief Executive Officer of Interferry, Mr. Mike Corrigan, who shared industry insights on global safety governance, risk management and operational leadership.
The session provided participants with an opportunity to engage directly with an internationally recognised expert on ferry safety and operations.
The programme culminated in a practical onboard training session on September 30, facilitated by Mr. Effiong Abasiubong and Mr. Samuel Nwosu of Coastal Maritime Academy Lagos.
During the exercise, participants conducted live safety management drills aboard two 60-seater passenger ferries, MF EJIRIN and MF ITESIWAJU, gaining practical experience in emergency preparedness, safety procedures and operational protocols.
The FerrySafe Programme expressed appreciation to Hon. Dr. Ladi Balogun, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of LAGFERRY, for providing the vessels used for the practical training.
According to the organisers, the availability of the vessels significantly enhanced the practical learning experience and enabled participants to apply theoretical knowledge in real operational environments.
The programme also recognised Mrs. Shari Corrigan, Director of Conference and Finance at Interferry and Executive Sponsor of FerrySafe, for her continued support of ferry safety initiatives.
The organisers equally acknowledged the contribution of Mr. Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, Special Adviser on Blue Economy to the Governor of Lagos State, whose support for blue economy development has created opportunities for capacity building and safety improvement.
Coastal Maritime Academy Lagos, LAGFERRY vessel crews, the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) and the Lagos State Government were also commended for their contributions to the successful delivery of the training.
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The FerrySafe Team Lagos, Nigeria, received special commendation for its professionalism and dedication in coordinating the programme.
With the completion of Module 5, the programme will now proceed to Module 6: Survey and Inspection, scheduled throughout October 2026.
The next module will feature expert mentorship from internationally recognised surveyors affiliated with the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS).
The training is expected to equip participants with specialised knowledge of vessel inspection, regulatory compliance and maritime safety assurance.
Programme coordinators said FerrySafe would continue to focus on continuous professional development, international collaboration and practical training as part of efforts to establish a stronger culture of safety and professionalism across Africa’s inland waterways.
The programme’s latest milestone comes amid growing efforts to improve safety, capacity and operational standards within Nigeria’s waterways sector, with practical training and international knowledge-sharing seen as important components of building a more resilient inland water transport system.
