LASWA, the Lagos State Waterways Authority, alongside the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), has intensified efforts to ensure safer travel on Lagos waterways as the holiday season brings increased passenger traffic. This enhanced partnership aims to protect lives, promote smooth operations, and strengthen cooperation among security agencies, vessel operators, and local communities throughout December.
A core part of the campaign includes coordinated patrols by LASWA, NIWA, Marine Police, and community volunteers, with particular attention to busy routes and terminals, especially during peak hours and nighttime. The authorities will also conduct unified safety inspections and random spot checks to enforce compliance with licensing and safety regulations on all commercial passenger vessels.
Real-time weather and water condition monitoring will guide safety advisories, with adjustments to routes implemented as necessary. Additionally, a strict zero-tolerance policy on alcohol consumption will prevent intoxicated passengers or crew members from boarding vessels, ensuring safety on board.
Passengers are reminded to wear life jackets properly, follow safety instructions, avoid overcrowding vessels, and report any suspicious or unsafe activities. Operators, meanwhile, must ensure valid licensing, maintain accurate passenger manifests, equip vessels with necessary safety gear, display emergency contacts, and enforce crew training and capacity limits.
To report emergencies, passengers and operators can approach officials at terminals or call the hotline numbers displayed prominently at jetties and docking points.
The NIWA Lagos Area Manager stressed that safe and enjoyable waterway travel requires a collective effort. “When regulators, operators, and passengers all fulfill their responsibilities, we can guarantee safer journeys across Lagos waterways throughout the festive season,” he said.