…Kicks off Wednesday
By Olasunkanmi Akoni
The Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), in partnership with Interferry, has launched Africa’s first Ferry Safety Development and Mentoring Programme.

The initiative is aimed at improving safety standards, operational efficiency, and professionalism in the ferry transport sector.

Interferry, a global ferry association with consultative status at the International Maritime Organization, is supporting the 18-month programme, which brings together leading maritime experts, institutions, and regulatory bodies across Nigeria.

According to LASWA, the initiative marks a significant milestone in strengthening Lagos State’s inland waterways transport system and aligning it with international best practices.

An intake verification exercise was concluded on March 18, 2026, to ensure that only qualified applicants were admitted into the programme.

LASWA disclosed that 50 participants—including ferry captains, deckhands, marine engineers and technicians, safety officers, compliance professionals, and fleet managers—have been selected.

The participants will undergo structured training covering ferry design and construction, safety management systems, maritime regulations, and preventive and predictive maintenance techniques.

“The programme will adopt a hybrid learning model combining self-paced online modules, virtual mentorship sessions, and monthly hands-on practical training,” LASWA stated.

The programme is scheduled to commence in May 2026, with the official kickoff set for Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the LASWA Head Office in Ikoyi, Lagos.

The launch event will feature presentations on the programme structure, introduction of mentors and participants, as well as a stakeholder engagement session involving key players in the maritime sector.