The Lagos State Government has launched Africa’s first-ever Ferry Safety Development and Mentoring Programme, marking another milestone in the state’s drive to build a safer and more efficient waterways transportation system.
Speaking at the historic event on behalf of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Special Adviser overseeing the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) described the initiative as a landmark achievement that reinforces Lagos’ leadership role in Africa’s maritime sector and Blue Economy development.
He noted that the programme aligns with the administration’s broader vision of positioning the Blue Economy as a critical driver of economic growth while prioritising the safety of commuters across the state’s waterways.
According to him, the 18-month intensive programme will train and mentor 50 ferry professionals, including captains, deckhands, marine engineers, safety officers, and fleet managers, through a hybrid learning structure that combines self-paced study, virtual mentorship, and practical hands-on sessions.
He commended the partnership with Interferry, noting that the organisation’s consultative status with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) would ensure that Lagos ferry operators receive training that meets global best practices and safety standards.
The LASWA boss described the initiative as a bold step toward deepening safety culture within the state’s waterways sector, stressing that every passenger deserves safe and reliable transportation on every trip.
Addressing the participants, he urged them to see themselves as pioneers and ambassadors of change, adding that the knowledge and skills they acquire would shape the future of ferry operations not only in Lagos but across Africa.
Reaffirming the state government’s commitment to the waterways sector, he said Lagos would continue to invest in policies, partnerships, and capacity-building initiatives aimed at delivering a world-class ferry transportation system.
He officially declared the programme open, expressing optimism that the initiative would set a new benchmark for ferry safety and maritime professionalism across the continent.
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