The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) and the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) say that they are strengthening their collaboration to ensure safety and security on the waterways during the Yuletide.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Blue Economy, Mr Damilola Emmanuel, said this in a statement on Monday in Lagos.
Emmanuel said that the collaboration was as a result of the travel activities which are expected to increase across water transport corridors this December.
He noted that the joint effort reinforced the commitment of both agencies to safeguarding lives, promoting seamless operations, and enhancing stakeholder cooperation across all inland waterways in Lagos.
“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,” he said.
The governor’s aide said that the key pillars of the joint LASWA and NIWA festive safety and security strategy included enhanced joint patrols.
He said: “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.
“There will be joint safety checks and inspections on all commercial passenger vessels before and during the holidays, and random spot checks to enforce regulatory compliance, operational licensing, and safety equipment standards.
“There will be real-time monitoring and swift safety advisories to operators and commuters, including route adjustments where needed”.
Emmanuel noted that passengers and crew members showing signs of intoxication would be denied boarding to protect all onboard.
He urged passengers to always abide by the regulations, which included wearing life jackets properly as required, and obeying safety instructions from crew and authorities.
The governor’s aide added that the regulations also entailed avoiding boarding overloaded vessels, supervising children and reporting suspicious or unsafe activities.
He urged operators to ensure valid licenses, complete passenger manifests, updated safety equipment, and display of emergency contact signage clearly.
He added that operators should maintain properly trained crews, enforce capacity limits and report any incidents.
Emmanuel urged passengers and operators to report emergencies to the nearest LASWA or NIWA official at terminals, or the hotline numbers prominently displayed at jetties and terminals.
Also commenting, the Area Manager, NIWA Lagos Area Office, Mrs Sarat Braimah, noted that the season was a time for celebration.
“We can only achieve safe and enjoyable travels when everyone, regulators, operators, and passengers play their part.
“Together, we will ensure safe navigation and compliance on all waterways,” she said.
