LASWA, Interferry Commence Practical Phase of Ferry Safety Development Programme

The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), in partnership with Interferry, has commenced the practical phase of the Ferry Safety Development Programme (FSDP) with the successful completion of its first in-person training session at the Caverton Marine Ferry Building Facility in Badore, Ajah, Lagos.
The training session, coordinated by Engr. Ukeme Sunday, brought together 50 participants for an intensive hands-on learning experience focused on ferry design and construction, vessel safety standards, maintenance procedures, and operational best practices within the maritime sector.
A major highlight of the programme was a technical session facilitated by Caverton Marine’s General Manager, Mr. Mohammed Ibrahim, who drew on more than 40 years of industry experience to provide participants with practical insights into ferry construction standards, maintenance requirements, and critical safety considerations for ferry operations.
Speaking on the significance of the initiative, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Blue Economy, Mr. Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, said the practical component was designed to complement the programme’s virtual mentoring and self-paced learning modules.
According to him, exposing participants to real-world operational environments and industry best practices is vital to developing the skills and competencies needed to enhance safety and efficiency across the waterways transport sector.
He noted that the programme reflects the Lagos State Government’s commitment to strengthening maritime capacity development and fostering a culture of safety within the state’s growing blue economy.
LASWA expressed appreciation to Interferry for sponsoring the initiative, Caverton Marine for hosting and facilitating the inaugural practical session, and the Lagos State Government for its continued support towards improving maritime safety and professional development in the sector.
As Africa’s first Ferry Safety Development Programme, the 18-month initiative is aimed at strengthening technical expertise, promoting operational excellence, and entrenching a sustainable safety culture across the ferry and inland waterways industry.
Stakeholders believe the programme will play a critical role in improving safety standards, enhancing workforce capacity, and supporting the long-term growth of water transportation across Lagos and beyond.