The FerrySafe Programme has successfully concluded Module 5 on Safety Management Systems, marking another milestone in its efforts to strengthen safety standards and operational excellence across Nigeria’s inland waterways and the wider West African maritime sector.
The September 2026 module combined international mentorship with practical, field-based training, equipping participants with knowledge of modern safety management systems and their application to ferry operations.
A major highlight was the “Ask the Expert” session held on September 23, featuring Mike Corrigan, Chief Executive Officer of Interferry, who shared insights into global safety governance, risk management and operational leadership in the international ferry industry.
The module culminated in a practical onboard training session on September 30, facilitated by Effiong Abasiubong and Samuel Nwosu of Coastal Maritime Academy Lagos. Participants conducted live safety management drills aboard two 60-seater passenger ferries, MF EJIRIN and MF ITESIWAJU, gaining hands-on experience in safety procedures, emergency preparedness and operational protocols.
FerrySafe expressed appreciation to Hon. Dr Ladi Balogun, Managing Director/CEO of LAGFERRY, for providing the vessels used for the practical exercise, noting that the support significantly enhanced the training experience.
The programme also recognised Shari Corrigan, Director of Conference and Finance at Interferry and Executive Sponsor of FerrySafe, for her continued support of ferry safety initiatives.
Commendation was equally extended to Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, Special Adviser on Blue Economy to the Lagos State Governor, for his support towards capacity building and the development of the state’s blue economy.
The organisers also acknowledged the contributions of Coastal Maritime Academy Lagos, LAGFERRY vessel crews, Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), the Lagos State Government and the FerrySafe Team Lagos to the successful delivery of the programme.
With Module 5 completed, FerrySafe is set to commence Module 6: Survey and Inspection, scheduled for October 2026.
The next phase will feature mentorship from internationally recognised surveyors affiliated with the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS), with participants expected to deepen their knowledge of vessel inspection, regulatory compliance and maritime safety assurance.
The programme coordinators reaffirmed their commitment to continuous professional development, international collaboration and practical training as part of efforts to build a stronger culture of safety, professionalism and operational excellence across Africa’s inland waterways.
Leave a Reply