Lagos State Waterways Authority, LASWA and the National Inland Waterways Authority, NIWA have launched a coordinated safety and security campaign to protect commuters throughout the festive season.
LASWA and NIWA in a joint statement, explained that the festive-season operation will run across all major inland waterways, with a focus on preventing accidents, enforcing compliance, and discouraging reckless navigation.
Special Adviser to the Governor on the Blue Economy, Mr. Damilola Emmanuel, said the collaboration is designed to boost enforcement capacity and enhance synergy among security agencies, vessel operators, and riverine communities.
“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.
On her part, the Area Manager, NIWA Lagos Area Office, Engr. Sarat Braimah, said the goal is to ensure safe navigation for all waterway users throughout the holiday period.
“This season is a time for celebration, and we can only achieve safe and enjoyable travels when everyone, regulators, operators and passengers, plays their part,” she said. “Together, we will ensure safe navigation and compliance on all waterways.”
According to the statement, collaboration strategy rests on several pillars.
Both agencies will deploy coordinated patrol teams comprising LASWA, NIWA, Marine Police and community safety volunteers to monitor major routes and terminals, particularly at peak hours and after dark.
Commercial boats will undergo joint pre-departure safety checks throughout the season, while random spot inspections will ensure operators comply with licensing rules, manifest procedures, and mandatory safety equipment standards.
LASWA and NIWA will provide frequent safety advisories to guide operators, with possible route adjustments where weather or tidal conditions pose risks.
Passengers or crew members suspected of intoxication will be barred from boarding, in line with new safety directives.
The agencies emphasised shared responsibility, urging passengers to wear life jackets, obey crew instructions, avoid overloaded boats, supervise children closely, and report suspicious behaviour.
Operators, on their part, must ensure valid operational licences, maintain fully equipped boats, prepare accurate passenger manifests, display emergency contact information, and enforce capacity limits.
Passengers and operators were also advised to report any emergencies to LASWA or NIWA officers stationed at terminals, or through the emergency hotlines displayed across jetties.
The agencies assured Lagosians that safety enforcement will remain consistent throughout the holidays as the state promotes water transport as a reliable, safe, and efficient mobility option.
