Lagos waterways agency says programme aims to strengthen emergency preparedness and safety standards across Africa’s growing ferry sector
By Bunmi Yekini
The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), in partnership with global ferry industry association Interferry, has completed the third module of Africa’s first Ferry Safety Development and Mentoring Programme, training 50 emerging ferry professionals in safety and emergency response.
The module, which focused on ferry safety, was held throughout July and combined virtual learning with practical training, LASWA said in a statement.
Participants received training in emergency preparedness, incident response and other safety procedures as part of efforts to build a skilled and safety-conscious workforce for Africa’s expanding inland waterways sector.
Academic sessions were facilitated by Dr. Bolaji Dunsin and Dr. Ayaobu-Cookey of the Nigerian Institute of Oceanography and Marine Research, while Darren Johnston, vice president of marine operations at BC Ferries, led an interactive session on global ferry safety and operational practices.
The practical training was held on July 29 at the Prime Atlantic Safety Services Ltd. training facility in Ogun State.
Participants underwent exercises on abandoning ship, including alarm recognition, mustering, headcounts, the use of personal protective equipment and the deployment of survival craft. They were also trained in responding to man-overboard emergencies, vessel manoeuvring, rescue operations and first aid.
LASWA General Manager and Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Blue Economy, Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, commended the training team and Interferry for supporting the programme.
He said the initiative was designed to raise professional standards and improve the safety and technical capacity of personnel working in the ferry industry.
The programme will move to its fourth module, focusing on an introduction to engine systems, throughout August.
LASWA said the broader initiative seeks to develop competent ferry personnel who can contribute to safer, more efficient and sustainable water transportation in Lagos, Nigeria and other parts of Africa.