LASWA Advances Africa's First Ferry Safety Programme with Hands-On Seamanship Training
Kathy Kyari
The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), in partnership with Interferry, has completed the second module of Africa's first structured Ferry Safety Development Programme (FSDP), equipping 50 ferry professionals with practical seamanship skills as part of efforts to strengthen safety standards and operational excellence across the continent's inland waterways.
The June training module focused on ropes and knots, mooring and anchoring, and deck maintenance, combining self-paced learning, virtual mentoring, expert engagement, and practical field exercises to improve participants' technical knowledge and operational competence.
As part of the programme, participants attended an "Ask the Expert" virtual session on June 17, 2026, featuring Interferry Mentor and Vice President, Marine Operations at Northumberland Ferries Limited, Mr. Jeff Joyce.
During the interactive session, Joyce shared practical insights on seamanship, ferry operations, maritime safety, leadership, and international best practices while engaging participants in discussions on real-world operational challenges.
The practical component of the module took place on June 24 at Sea School, Apapa, under the leadership of Programme Coordinator, Engr. Ukeme Sunday, and was facilitated by Sea School Coordinator, Dr. Ekundayo, alongside seven experienced maritime instructors.
The 50 participants were divided into three groups for intensive hands-on training covering rope identification, rope handling, knot tying, line management, and the practical application of knots commonly used in ferry operations.
The exercises were supervised by seasoned maritime instructors, providing participants with practical experience designed to reinforce teamwork, operational competence, and onboard safety.
Speaking on the importance of the programme, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Blue Economy, Mr. Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, said the practical sessions were designed to complement the programme's virtual mentoring and self-paced learning.
He noted that the hands-on exercises expose participants to real-life operational environments and international best practices, helping to build a stronger safety culture within the ferry sector.
LASWA expressed appreciation to Lagos Ferry Services Company Limited (LAGFERRY) and Thesaurus Bay Limited for providing ferries for the practical training, while also acknowledging Interferry for sponsoring the programme.
The authority further thanked Mrs. Shari Corrigan for her support, Mr. Jeff Joyce for sharing his expertise, Dr. Ekundayo and the management of Sea School, Apapa, for facilitating the practical training, as well as the Lagos State Government for its continued commitment to maritime safety and capacity development.
The 18-month Ferry Safety Development Programme is designed to strengthen technical competence, operational excellence, leadership, and safety culture while preparing the next generation of ferry professionals across Africa.
With two modules completed, the programme will move into Module Three, Ferry Safety, in July 2026, where participants will focus on emergency preparedness, risk management, and international safety best practices aimed at further improving safety standards across Africa's inland waterways.
0 Comments