The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), has successfully completed Module Four: Introduction to Engine Systems dedicated to boosting mentees’ technical expertise in vital marine engineering topics.
The module featured self-paced learning in Weeks 1 and 2, facilitated by Engr. Jeremiah Akwemioh, a seasoned Nigerian Navy veteran, who shared his wealth of experience in marine engineering and engine systems.
In Week 3, mentees took part in an “Ask the Expert” session, an engaging virtual dialogue with Interferry Mentors Joep Bollerman, Vice President of Passenger Ships and Director of the Cruise Ship Center of Expertise, Lloyd’s Register, and Francesco Ruisi, Global Passenger Ship Segment Director, Lloyd’s Register.
The module concluded in Week 4 with a practical onboard session held aboard the MV ONONEZE, an American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) classed vessel owned by Fymak Marine & Oil Services Nig. Ltd. With four Cummins main engines, four propellers, a bow thruster, and a combined output of 5,368 kW (7,200 BHP), the MV ONONEZE provided an exceptional hands-on learning experience. Mentees observed engine operations and key auxiliary systems, including generators, purifiers, sewage treatment plants, air compressors, and piping systems.
LASWA expressed appreciation to the Fymak Marine Management and vessel crew, including Captain Aniekan Udo, Chief Officer Abiodun Erewa, Chief Engineer Emmanuel Ezekudo, and Engr. Paul Etarijakpere, whose real-world operational insights enriched the learning experience.
The Authority also thanked the module facilitator and Interferry mentors, Jeremiah Akwemioh, Joep Bollerman and Francesco Ruisi, for their invaluable guidance, as well as its sponsors and leadership, including Interferry, Shari Corrigan, Director of Conferences and Finance and Executive Sponsor at FerrySafe, LASWA, the Lagos State Government, and Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, Special Adviser to the Governor on Blue Economy, for their ongoing support of the programme’s capacity-building efforts.
Looking ahead, the programme will proceed to Module Five: Safety Management Systems, kicking off in September 2026, led by Mike Corrigan, CEO of Interferry. LASWA described it as a rare privilege for mentees to learn directly from the leader guiding the future of ferry safety.