By Seun Ibiyemi
The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), in partnership with Interferry, has launched Africa’s first Ferry Safety Development and Mentoring Programme, a pioneering initiative aimed at improving safety standards, operational efficiency, and professionalism within the ferry transport sector.
Interferry, a global ferry association with consultative status at the International Maritime Organization, is supporting the 18-month programme, which brings together leading maritime experts, institutions, and regulatory bodies across Nigeria.
According to LASWA, the initiative represents a major milestone in strengthening Lagos State’s inland waterways transport system and positioning it in line with international best practices.
An intake verification exercise was successfully concluded on March 18, 2026, ensuring that only qualified applicants were selected for participation.
A total of 50 participants—including ferry captains, deckhands, marine engineers and technicians, safety officers, compliance professionals, and fleet managers—have been admitted into the programme. They will undergo structured training covering ferry design and construction, safety management systems, maritime regulations, and preventive and predictive maintenance techniques.
The programme will adopt a hybrid learning model combining self-paced online modules, virtual mentorship sessions, and monthly hands-on practical training.
It is scheduled to officially commence in May 2026, with the kickoff ceremony set for Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the LASWA Head Office in Ikoyi, Lagos.
The launch event will feature presentations on the programme structure, introduction of mentors and participants, and a stakeholder engagement session involving key players in the maritime sector.
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For further enquiries, LASWA named Ukeme Sunday (Program Coordinator) and Michael Ogunbiyi as contact persons.
The agency said the initiative underscores the Lagos State Government’s commitment to safer waterways transport and the development of a globally competitive ferry operation system.
