Joyce Mmereole Okoli
The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), in collaboration with Interferry, the global ferry association with consultative status at the International Maritime Organization (IMO), has unveiled Africa’s first-ever Ferry Safety Development and Mentoring Program—a transformative initiative designed to reshape safety culture, strengthen operational excellence, and uplift professional standards across the ferry transport sector.
Poised to run for 18 months, the program brings world-class expertise to Nigeria’s waterways. Participants will benefit from mentorship delivered by top Interferry specialists alongside seasoned facilitators drawn from Nigeria’s foremost maritime institutions, regulatory agencies, and industry leaders.
Following a rigorous intake verification exercise on March 18, 2026, a distinguished cohort of 50 participants, including ferry captains, deckhands, marine engineers and technicians, safety officers, compliance professionals, and fleet managers, has been selected.
They will undergo an intensive curriculum covering ferry design and construction, safety management systems, maritime regulations, and both preventive and predictive maintenance techniques.
Designed for maximum flexibility and impact, the program adopts a hybrid model that blends self-paced online learning, virtual mentorship, and monthly hands-on sessions. Training officially commences in May 2026.
• Date:Wednesday, May 6, 2026
• Time:11:00 AM
• Venue: LASWA Head Office, Ikoyi, Lagos
The kickoff event will provide an in-depth overview of the program, present the mentors and trainee cohort, and host a strategic engagement session with industry stakeholders.
Further inquiries can be made through the program Coordinator Ukeme Sunday 0803 342 2279 | [sakpan@lagoswaterways.com](mailto:sakpan@lagoswaterways.com)
Michael Ogunbiyi: 0706 589 7577 | [mogunbiyi@lagoswaterways.com](mailto:mogunbiyi@lagoswaterways.com)
This pioneering program further reinforces the Lagos State Government’s commitment to safer waterways and the continuous development of a modern, professionally driven, and globally aligned ferry transportation ecosystem.