LASWA, NIWA Tighten Safety Enforcement as Lagos Waterway Traffic Peaks for Festive Season
Kathy Kyari
With passenger movement expected to rise across Lagos waterways this December, the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) and the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) have rolled out a coordinated safety and security campaign to curb accidents and strengthen enforcement during the festive rush.
The initiative marks one of the strongest joint crackdowns by both agencies in recent years, targeting compliance lapses, unsafe vessel operations, and security vulnerabilities along major transport corridors.
“Safety on our waterways is not negotiable,” said the Special Adviser to the Governor on the Blue Economy. “This collaboration with NIWA amplifies our enforcement capacity and improves coordination with security agencies, vessel operators, and local communities to ensure a secure and joyful festive season for all waterway users.”
The strategy is anchored on intensified joint patrols involving LASWA, NIWA, the Marine Police, and community safety volunteers, particularly during peak hours and night operations.
Authorities will also enforce unified vessel safety compliance, including joint inspections of commercial boats and random spot checks to ensure licensing, operational standards, and mandatory safety equipment are up to date.
Other measures include real-time weather and tide condition monitoring, the issuance of route advisories, and a strict zero-alcohol boarding policy for both passengers and crew.
Passengers are expected to wear life jackets, obey crew instructions, avoid overloaded boats, and report suspicious activities. Operators must maintain valid licenses, complete passenger manifests, keep emergency contacts visible, and enforce capacity limits.
“This season is a time for celebration, and we can only achieve safe and enjoyable travels when everyone—regulators, operators, and passengers play their part,” said the NIWA Lagos Area Manager. “Together, we will ensure safe navigation and compliance on all waterways.”
LASWA and NIWA officials, as well as hotline numbers displayed at terminals, are available for emergency reporting throughout the festive period.
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