Harboursandportcom: Lagos-Nigeria: December 8, 2025: The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) in collaboration with National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) have rolled out a coordinated safety and security initiative to curb accidents and strengthen enforcement during the festive rush, as passenger movement are expected to rise across Lagos waterways this festive period.
The joint alliance reinforces the commitment of both agencies in safeguarding lives, promoting seamless operations, and enhancing stakeholder cooperation across all inland waterways in Lagos.
The campaign which marks one of the strongest joint crackdowns by both agencies in recent years, is set to target compliance lapses, unsafe vessel operations, and security vulnerabilities along major transport corridors.
According Mr Damilola Emanuel, the Special Adviser to the Governor on the Blue Economy,he said “Safety on our waterways is not negotiable. This collaboration with NIWA amplifies our enforcement capacity and improves coordination with security agencies, vessel operators, and local communities to ensure a secure and joyful festive season for all waterway users.”
Highlighting the Joint LASWA–NIWA Festive Safety & Security Strategy; there will be coordinated patrols by LASWA, NIWA, Marine Police, and community safety volunteers along major routes and terminals, especially during peak periods and at night. They will also create Unified Vessel Safety Compliance for safety checks and inspections on all commercial passenger vessels before and during the holidays. Random spot checks to enforce regulatory compliance, operational licensing, and safety equipment standards will also be in place.
Other measures includes, Advanced Weather & Water Condition monitoring swift safety advisories to operators and commuters, including route adjustments where needed. There will also be Strict Zero-Alcohol Boarding Policy on passengers and crew members showing signs of intoxication will be denied boarding to protect all onboard.
Passengers are also expected to show some level of responsibility by adhering to rules of the operators by Wearing life jackets properly as required. Obey safety instructions from crew and authorities. Avoid boarding overloaded vessels; and supervise children and report suspicious or unsafe activities.
As part of their responsibilities, operators must ensure they possess valid licenses, complete passenger manifests, and updated safety equipment. They must also display emergency contact signage clearly and maintain properly trained crews and enforce capacity limits.
The NIWA Lagos Area Manager, Engr Sarat Briamah, added that “This season is a time for celebration, and we can only achieve safe and enjoyable travels when everyone—regulators, operators, and passengers play their part, and together, we will ensure safe navigation and compliance on all waterways.”
LASWA and NIWA officials, as well as hotline numbers displayed at terminals, are available for emergency reporting throughout the festive period.
No comments:
Post a Comment