The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening water transport safety with the launch of its first Ferry Safety Development and Mentoring Programme, a key step toward building a secure and globally competitive blue economy.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Blue Economy, Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, made this known on Wednesday during the mentoring programme for ferry operators held in Lagos.
The initiative, organised by the Lagos State Waterways Authority in partnership with Interferry, underscores Lagos State’s strategic focus on ensuring safety across its waterways.
Emmanuel described the programme as a historic milestone, noting that the blue economy remains central to the vision of Bola Tinubu’s administration.
He emphasised that safeguarding lives on waterways remains a top priority for the state government.
“Over the next 18 months, 50 exceptional ferry professionals, including captains, deckhands, marine engineers and safety officers, will undergo intensive training and mentorship guided by world-class experts,” he said.
According to him, the programme adopts a hybrid model combining self-paced learning, virtual mentorship and hands-on practical sessions to enhance participants’ competence and safety compliance.
He added that the collaboration with Interferry reflects Lagos’ unwavering commitment to protecting passengers and crew members across its water transport system.
Speaking, the Chief Executive Officer of Interferry, Mike Corrigan, said the initiative aims to improve maritime safety in developing regions while supporting economic growth through reliable ferry operations.
Corrigan noted that the programme, which began in Asia-Pacific countries such as the Philippines and Indonesia, expanded to Africa in 2024 as part of global efforts to strengthen ferry safety standards.
He disclosed that previous engagements, including conferences in Dar es Salaam and Marrakesh, culminated in a major regional safety conference in Lagos in 2025, which attracted about 250 stakeholders and led to the launch of the current 18-month programme.
He assured that Interferry would provide long-term support and mentorship, with plans to scale the initiative across Nigeria and the African continent.
Also speaking, Kelvin Abah of the National Inland Waterways Authority, commended LASWA and Interferry for the initiative, describing it as a commendable step toward enhancing safety standards.
Abah stressed that water transport safety is a collective responsibility, noting that reliable waterways are critical to the growth of the blue economy.
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Similarly, Stanley Wali of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, described the programme as timely and a bold move to improve safety across Nigeria’s maritime sector.
He reiterated NIMASA’s commitment to upholding international maritime conventions, adding that knowledge sharing and capacity building would significantly reduce accidents and improve operational safety on waterways.
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