Uche Cecil Izuora
The Lagos State Government has restated commitment towards enhancing water transportation to meet demand of transport needs of residents.
Speaking at the Regional Ferry Safety Conference hosted by the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) in Lagos today, the State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, stated that the conference is not merely timely but essential especially in Lagos State with over 25 million residents which makes robust ferry transportation system for urban mobility, tourism, and economic connectivity undeniable.
The conference is themed, “Charting Safer Waters: Advancing Ferry Safety Through Innovation, Collaboration, and Integrated Transport Solutions.”
The Governor who was represented by his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, however noted that as the State embrace this growth, it must simultaneously uphold rigorous, enforceable, and technologically advanced safety standards.
This, he said calls for a unified regional effort, and assured that the Government is ready to lead the charge.
According to Sanwo-Olu, Lagos has made substantial investments in modern jetties, ferry terminals, cutting-edge digital monitoring systems, and comprehensive capacity-building initiatives—all aimed at safeguarding our citizens.
He went on to say that through LASWA, the Government has deployed patrol and rescue boats, equipped its services with state-of-the-art safety gear, and established the first-ever Inland Waterways Monitoring and Data Management Centre.
“We have implemented stricter operational guidelines and introduced the locally-built Omi Bus standard ferries to enhance our regional capabilities.
However, we must recognize that ferry safety transcends local boundaries; it is a regional imperative.
“This is precisely why today’s gathering is critical. We, as West and Central African states, must forge common safety frameworks, share crucial data and intelligence, standardize training protocols, and embrace innovative technologies that elevate navigation and emergency response. GPS, radar, automation, and advanced ship designs are not just options; they are essential to revolutionizing ferry safety in our region. Our waterways must be not only conduits for transportation but also bastions of safety.” the Governor added.
He urged the conference to catalyze change, adding, “Together, we must foster partnerships, align our policies, and pursue actionable solutions that will leave a lasting impact long after we depart.”
“As the Governor of Lagos, I assure you that we are not only ready but also resolutely committed to leading the way in creating a future where ferry transportation is efficient, accessible, and, above all, unfailingly safe and sustainable for everyone.” he added.
In his speech, the General Manager of LASWA, Mr. Damilola Emmanuel, said the summit aims to harmonize policies and establish robust regional frameworks that ensure safer and more efficient cross-border ferry operations.
Emmanuel, said the Government is committed to elevating technical and design standards, ensuring that infrastructure is not only adequate but also ready to meet the needs of the future.
He said the Government seeks to position ferry transport as a vital component of urban and regional mobility, alleviating congestion, enhancing connectivity, and promoting environmentally friendly transportation options.
According to him, the Government will harness innovation and data—from real-time monitoring systems to innovative vessel technologies—to protect our precious waterways and will shine a spotlight on the essential role ferry transport plays in Africa’s blue economy, generating jobs, facilitating trade, and fostering sustainable coastal development.
“Lagos, with its energy and ambition, is more than an ideal host—it embodies a thriving environment where forward-thinking policymaking, operational excellence, and community involvement intersect around our waterways. This city demonstrates that safe, scalable, and sustainable ferry transport is attainable when public institutions, private operators, and local communities collaborate in harmony.” he added.
In his remarks, the Commissioner of Transport, Mr. Oluwasuen Osiyemi, stated that the conference is timely and symbolizes shared commitment to achieving safer, more innovative, and sustainable ferry operations across our region.
“Today, we stand at a defining moment between aspiration and responsibility. Water transportation has evolved from a supporting role in our mobility narrative to a vital pillar of our urban transit systems. With the rapid population growth in coastal cities across Africa, ferry services have become not just an option but a necessity. The urgency of this cause is undeniable.
“In Lagos, we have experienced this transformation firsthand. Under the leadership of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu and through the visionary initiatives of the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), we have redefined the possibilities on our inland waterways. Through enhanced investments in terminals and jetties, digital monitoring systems, the distribution of life jackets, and strict safety protocols, safety has emerged as the cornerstone of our water transport reforms.” added Osiyemi.