LASWA, Interferry Advance Ferry Safety Training with Seamanship Module for 50 Maritime Professionals

LASWA, Interferry Advance Ferry Safety Training with Seamanship Module for 50 Maritime Professionals

The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), in partnership with Interferry, has completed the second module of the Ferry Safety Development Programme (FSDP), equipping 50 participants with practical seamanship skills as part of Africa's first structured 18-month ferry professional development initiative.

The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), in collaboration with Interferry, has successfully concluded Module Two (Seamanship) of the Ferry Safety Development Programme (FSDP), further strengthening capacity building in Nigeria's maritime sector.

The June training module focused on critical areas including ropes and knots, mooring and anchoring, and deck maintenance. Participants underwent a blend of self-paced learning, virtual mentoring, expert-led sessions, and practical field exercises designed to improve technical competence and operational safety in ferry services.

A major highlight of the programme was the "Ask the Expert" virtual session held on June 17, 2026, during which Mr. Jeff Joyce, Interferry Mentor and Vice President of Marine Operations at Northumberland Ferries Limited, shared insights on seamanship, ferry operations, maritime safety, leadership, and global best practices.

The practical training took place on June 24 at Sea School, Apapa, under the coordination of Engr. Ukeme Sunday and was facilitated by Sea School Coordinator, Dr. Ekundayo, alongside seven experienced maritime instructors.

During the exercise, the 50 participants were divided into three groups and received hands-on instruction in rope identification, rope handling, knot tying, line management, and the practical application of knots used in ferry operations. The training also emphasized teamwork, operational competence, and onboard safety through real-life simulations.

Speaking on the programme, Mr. Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, Special Adviser to the Governor on Blue Economy, said the practical component complements the programme's virtual mentoring and self-paced learning by exposing participants to real-world operational environments and internationally recognised best practices.

LASWA expressed appreciation to Lagos Ferry Services Company Limited (LAGFERRY), Thesaurus Bay Limited, Interferry, Mrs. Shari Corrigan, Mr. Jeff Joyce, Dr. Ekundayo, the management of Sea School, Apapa, and the Lagos State Government for their support toward the successful delivery of the module.

According to the Authority, the Ferry Safety Development Programme is Africa's first structured 18-month ferry professional development initiative aimed at enhancing technical competence, operational excellence, leadership, and safety culture while preparing the next generation of ferry professionals across the continent.

With 16 months remaining, the programme will proceed to Module Three in July 2026, focusing on ferry safety, emergency preparedness, risk management, and international safety best practices to further strengthen safe ferry operations across Africa's inland waterways.