Joyce Mmereole Okoli
The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), in partnership with Interferry, has successfully completed Module Two (seamanship) of the Ferry Safety Development Programme (FSDP), further advancing Africa’s first structured professional development initiative dedicated to strengthening ferry safety and operational excellence.
The June training module equipped participants with essential seamanship competencies, covering Ropes and Knots, Mooring and Anchoring, and Deck Maintenance. Through a blend of self-paced learning, virtual mentoring, expert-led discussions, and practical field exercises, participants enhanced the technical knowledge and hands-on skills required for safe, efficient, and professional ferry operations.
A key highlight of the module was the “Ask the Expert” virtual session held on 17 June 2026, featuring Mr. Jeff Joyce, Interferry Mentor and Vice President, Marine Operations, Northumberland Ferries Limited. During the interactive session, Mr. Joyce shared invaluable insights on seamanship, ferry operations, maritime safety, leadership, and global best practices, while engaging participants in thought-provoking discussions drawn from international industry experience.
The practical training component took place on 24 June 2026 at Sea School, Apapa, under the coordination of the Programme Coordinator, Engr. Ukeme Sunday, and was facilitated by Dr. Ekundayo, Sea School Coordinator, alongside seven experienced maritime instructors.
The 50 participants were divided into three groups for intensive hands-on exercises in rope identification, rope handling, knot tying, line management, and the practical application of knots used in ferry operations. The practical sessions provided participants with real-life operational experience, reinforcing teamwork, technical competence, and onboard safety while bridging the gap between classroom learning and operational practice.
Speaking on the importance of the programme, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Blue Economy, Mr. Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, said the practical exercises were a critical component of the curriculum, complementing the virtual mentoring and self-paced learning by exposing participants to real-world operational environments and internationally recognised best practices.
He reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s commitment to building a highly skilled ferry workforce capable of driving safer, more efficient, and globally competitive inland water transport services.
LASWA expressed profound appreciation to Lagos Ferry Services Company Limited (LAGFERRY) and Thesaurus Bay Limited for providing ferries used during the practical sessions; Interferry for sponsoring the programme; Mrs. Shari Corrigan for her exceptional support; Mr. Jeff Joyce for generously sharing his expertise; Dr. Ekundayo and the management of Sea School, Apapa, for facilitating the practical training; and the Lagos State Government for its unwavering commitment to maritime safety, capacity development, and the growth of the blue economy.
As Africa’s pioneering 18-month Ferry Safety Development, the initiative is designed to build technical competence, strengthen operational excellence, promote leadership development, and foster a robust safety culture while preparing the next generation of ferry professionals across the continent.
With two modules successfully completed, the programme now progresses to Module Three: Ferry Safety, scheduled for July 2026, where participants will deepen their knowledge of emergency preparedness, risk management, and international ferry safety standards, further reinforcing a culture of safety and operational excellence across Africa’s inland waterways.