The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), in partnership with Interferry, has unveiled Africa’s first-ever Ferry Safety Development and Mentoring Programme, a landmark initiative aimed at transforming safety standards and operational efficiency across the continent’s ferry transport sector.
The 18-month programme will provide intensive training and mentorship to selected participants, drawing on the expertise of Interferry professionals alongside facilitators from leading maritime institutions, regulatory bodies, and industry operators within Nigeria.
According to LASWA, the initiative is designed to strengthen technical capacity, enhance regulatory compliance, and promote global best practices in ferry operations. An intake verification exercise conducted on March 18, 2026, ensured that all shortlisted candidates met stringent eligibility criteria.
A total of 50 participants—including ferry captains, marine engineers, deckhands, safety officers, compliance experts, and fleet managers—have been selected for the programme. The curriculum will cover key areas such as ferry design and construction, safety management systems, maritime regulations, and both preventive and predictive maintenance.
The training will adopt a hybrid model, combining self-paced online modules, virtual mentoring sessions, and monthly hands-on practical training. The programme is scheduled to commence in May 2026.
The official launch will take place on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at the LASWA Head Office in Ikoyi, Lagos, where stakeholders will be introduced to the programme structure, mentors, and participants, alongside a strategic engagement session.
The initiative underscores the Lagos State Government’s commitment to improving safety on its waterways while building a professional and globally competitive ferry transportation system.
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