LASWA, Interferry Begin Practical Training Phase of Africa’s First Ferry Safety Development Programme
LAGOS, Nigeria – The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), in collaboration with Interferry, has commenced the practical phase of the Ferry Safety Development Programme (FSDP), marking a significant step towards enhancing safety standards and technical capacity within Nigeria’s inland waterways sector.
The first in-person training session of the programme was held at the Caverton Marine Ferry Building Facility in Badore, Ajah, Lagos, bringing together 50 participants for intensive hands-on learning focused on ferry design and construction, vessel safety standards, maintenance practices, and operational best practices.
The training was coordinated by the Programme Coordinator, Engr. Ukeme Sunday, and featured a technical session facilitated by Caverton Marine’s General Manager, Mohammed Ibrahim. Drawing on more than four decades of experience in ferry design and construction, Ibrahim shared practical insights on vessel construction standards, maintenance requirements, and critical safety measures necessary for safe ferry operations.
Speaking on the significance of the initiative, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Blue Economy, Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, said the practical training component was designed to complement the programme’s virtual mentoring and self-paced learning modules.
According to him, exposing participants to real-life operational environments and industry best practices is crucial to developing the skills and competencies needed to improve safety and efficiency across the waterways sector.
He noted that the initiative aligns with the Lagos State Government’s commitment to strengthening maritime safety, promoting capacity development, and advancing the state’s blue economy agenda.
LASWA expressed appreciation to Interferry for sponsoring the programme and Caverton Marine for hosting and facilitating the inaugural practical session. The authority also commended the Lagos State Government for its continued support of initiatives aimed at improving water transportation safety and operational excellence.
The 18-month Ferry Safety Development Programme, described as Africa’s first of its kind, is expected to strengthen technical competence, encourage operational excellence, and foster a stronger safety culture across the ferry and inland waterways industry.
The programme forms part of ongoing efforts to improve water transport services in Lagos and position the state as a leader in safe and sustainable inland waterway operations across Africa.
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