The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) and the international ferry trade body Interferry have concluded Module 6 of the Africa Ferry Safety Development and Mentoring Programme, a training initiative designed to raise safety standards across Nigeria's inland waterways. The module, focused on survey and inspection techniques, was delivered through a blend of self-paced theoretical coursework from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) and Lloyd’s Register, virtual mentorship sessions, and hands-on field exercises at operational ferry terminals.
A virtual “Ask the Expert” session held on 21 October featured Interferry specialists Joep Bollerman, Francesco Ruisi, and Darren Johnston, who discussed international ferry safety benchmarks. This was followed by live condition and safety compliance audits at working passenger ferry terminals, supervised by Sandra (Okoli) Ubong of ABS and Engineer Frank Fayinto of Lloyd’s Register.
During the practical drills, participants applied an eight-step survey methodology covering preparation, onboard assessment, and reporting. They were trained to spot safety deficiencies related to hull integrity, life-saving appliances, fire protection systems, and machinery, while using the 5W+1H principle to ensure evidence-based documentation. Identified risks were then classified into immediate, medium-term, and low-priority interventions to enable timely corrective action.
The programme enjoys backing from the Lagos State Government and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Blue Economy, Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, alongside Interferry Chief Executive Officer Mike Corrigan and Ferrysafe Executive Sponsor Shari Corrigan. With Module 6 completed, the initiative is set to advance to Module 7, titled “Watchkeeping,” slated for November 2026, which will further develop competencies in vessel operations, navigational safety, and effective watchkeeping practices.
LASWA reiterated its dedication to strengthening professional standards, enhancing passenger safety, and building a more efficient, resilient, and sustainable water transportation system in Lagos State and across Africa through international collaboration.