Lagos State Waterways Authority, in partnership with Interferry, has completed the second module of its Ferry Safety Development Programme, FSDP, further strengthening technical capacity and safety standards for ferry operations in Nigeria.
The June training, which focused on Seamanship, forms part of Africa’s first structured 18-month professional development programme for ferry operators and maritime professionals.
The module covered key operational areas, including rope handling and knots, mooring and anchoring procedures, as well as deck maintenance, combining self-paced learning, virtual mentoring, expert sessions and practical field exercises.
As part of the programme, participants attended a virtual “Ask the Expert” session on June 17, where Jeff Joyce shared practical insights on seamanship, ferry operations, maritime safety, leadership and global industry best practices.
The practical training was held on June 24 at Sea School, Apapa under the coordination of Ukeme Sunday and facilitated by Sea School Coordinator, Ekundayo, alongside seven experienced maritime instructors.
The 50 participants were divided into three groups and received hands-on instruction in rope identification, rope handling, knot tying, line management and the practical application of knots used during ferry operations.
The exercises, supervised by experienced maritime professionals, were designed to strengthen teamwork, operational competence and onboard safety through real-life practical experience.
Speaking on the programme, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Blue Economy, Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, said the practical sessions complement the programme’s virtual learning by exposing participants to real operational environments and internationally recognised maritime practices.
LASWA also acknowledged the support of Lagos Ferry Services Company Limited and Thesaurus Bay Limited for providing ferries used during the practical sessions, while appreciating Interferry for sponsoring the programme and other stakeholders who contributed to its successful implementation.
The Ferry Safety Development Programme is designed to build technical competence, leadership capacity, operational excellence and a stronger safety culture among ferry professionals across Africa.
With the completion of the Seamanship module, the programme will advance to Module Three: Ferry Safety in July 2026, where participants will receive training in emergency preparedness, risk management and international ferry safety standards.
