LASWA Partners with Interferry; Launch Africa’s Ferry Safety Development and Mentoring Program

By Stella Okocha 

The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), has strategically partnered with Interferry— a global ferry association with consultative status at the International Maritime Organization, to launch the Ferry Safety Development and Mentoring Program.

This landmark initiative in Africa is set to revolutionize ferry safety practices, boost operational efficiency, and significantly elevate professional standards among industry operators.

The 18-month intensive program features mentorship from top Interferry experts, complemented by facilitators from esteemed maritime institutions, leading maritime companies, and regulatory agencies across Nigeria.

A carefully selected cohort of 50 participants—including ferry captains, deckhands, marine engineers/technicians, safety officers, compliance professionals, and fleet managers—will undergo comprehensive training and mentorship.

An extensive intake verification was successfully completed on March 18, 2026, ensuring all applicants meet the highest standards of eligibility and selection criteria.

Key modules of the training, covers r ferry design and construction, safety management systems, maritime regulations, and maintenance techniques, both preventive and predictive.

The kick-off details of the training is scheduled to hold on Wednesday May 6, 2026, by 11 am, at the LASWA head office, Ikoyi, Lagos.

The program which is to start this May, will be delivering a hybrid training model—combining self-paced online learning, virtual mentoring, and monthly practical sessions.

The launch will also feature in-depth program insights, introductions of mentors and participants, and a strategic stakeholder engagement session.

Ukeme Sunday (Program Coordinator): 0803 342 2279 sakpan@lagoswaterways.com and Michael Ogunbiyi: 0706 589 7577 mogunbiyi@lagoswaterways.com; are officials that can be contacted for further inquires concerning the program.

This pioneering initiative underscores Lagos State Government’s unwavering commitment to safer waterways and the development of a professional, internationally competitive ferry transportation system.