LASWA Takes Ferry Safety Training to the Field as 50 Participants Begin Practical Sessions
Kathy Kyari
The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) and Interferry have moved the Ferry Safety Development Programme (FSDP) from the classroom to the field, with 50 participants commencing the first practical training session of the landmark initiative at the Caverton Marine Ferry Building Facility in Badore, Ajah.
The hands-on training marks a new phase in the 18-month programme aimed at raising safety standards, strengthening technical competence and promoting operational excellence across the ferry and inland waterways sector.
Participants were exposed to practical lessons on ferry design and construction, vessel safety standards, maintenance procedures and operational best practices, providing them with real-world experience to complement the programme's virtual mentoring and self-paced learning modules.
The session, coordinated by Engr. Ukeme Sunday, featured a technical presentation by Caverton Marine General Manager, Mr. Mohammed Ibrahim, who drew from more than four decades of experience in ferry design and construction to guide participants through key aspects of vessel development and maintenance.
Ibrahim shared practical insights into vessel construction standards, maintenance requirements and critical safety considerations that underpin safe and efficient ferry operations.
Speaking on the significance of the practical phase, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Blue Economy, Mr. Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, said the programme was deliberately structured to bridge the gap between theory and practice.
"The practical component was designed to complement the programme's virtual mentoring and self-paced learning modules. Exposing participants to real-world operational environments and industry best practices is essential to building the skills and competencies required for a safer and more efficient waterways sector," Emmanuel said.
LASWA expressed appreciation to Interferry for sponsoring the programme, Caverton Marine for hosting and facilitating the inaugural practical session, and the Lagos State Government for its continued investment in maritime safety, capacity development and the growth of the blue economy.
The initiative is expected to help develop a new generation of safety-conscious ferry operators and professionals while strengthening the safety culture across Nigeria's inland waterways transportation system.
0 Comments