Practical drills, international mentoring aim to strengthen maritime safety and operational standards on inland waterways
By Heapnews
The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), in partnership with international ferry association Interferry, has completed the second module of Africa’s first structured Ferry Safety Development Programme, expanding efforts to improve technical skills and safety standards for ferry operators across the continent.
The second module, which focused on seamanship, combined self-paced learning, virtual mentoring and practical exercises covering rope handling, knot tying, mooring, anchoring and deck maintenance, the authority said in a statement.
The programme forms part of an 18-month initiative designed to build technical competence, leadership and a stronger safety culture among ferry professionals as African cities increasingly look to inland waterways to ease urban transport congestion.
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Fifty participants took part in the practical training held at Sea School in Apapa on June 24, where they received hands-on instruction in rope identification, line management and the application of knots commonly used in ferry operations. Participants were divided into three groups and supervised by seven maritime instructors.
Earlier in the month, participants also attended an online “Ask the Expert” session led by Jeff Joyce, Interferry mentor and Vice President of Marine Operations at Northumberland Ferries Limited, who shared operational experience and international best practices on ferry safety, seamanship and leadership.
Speaking on the programme, Lagos State Special Adviser to the Governor on Blue Economy, Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, said the practical sessions were designed to complement virtual learning by exposing participants to real-life operational environments and internationally recognised safety practices.
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LASWA said the initiative reflects the Lagos State Government’s broader commitment to strengthening maritime safety and building professional capacity in the water transport sector.
The authority acknowledged the support of Interferry, Lagos Ferry Services Company Limited (LAGFERRY), Thesaurus Bay Limited, Sea School Apapa and other partners for providing technical expertise, vessels and training facilities.
The programme now moves into its third module, scheduled for July, which will focus on ferry safety, including emergency preparedness, risk management and international safety standards, with 16 months remaining in the professional development initiative.