The Lagos State Waterways Authority, in partnership with Interferry, has completed Module Two of the Ferry Safety Development Programme, focusing on seamanship training for ferry professionals.
The June module covered ropes and knots, mooring and anchoring, and deck maintenance. Participants combined self-paced learning, virtual mentoring, expert sessions and practical field exercises to build stronger technical knowledge and operational skills for safer ferry services.
As part of the module, participants joined an “Ask the Expert” virtual session on 17 June 2026 with Mr. Jeff Joyce, Interferry Mentor and Vice President, Marine Operations at Northumberland Ferries Limited. He shared practical insights on seamanship, ferry operations, maritime safety, leadership and international best practices.
The hands-on session took place on 24 June at Sea School, Apapa, where 50 participants were divided into three groups for practical training in rope identification, rope handling, knot tying and line management. The exercises were led by the Programme Coordinator, Engr. Ukeme Sunday, and supported by seven maritime instructors.
LASWA said the practical component was designed to complement the virtual and self-paced elements of the programme by exposing participants to real operational conditions and global safety standards. The agency added that the initiative is aimed at building technical competence, leadership and a stronger safety culture across Africa’s inland waterways.
The programme will now move to Module Three, which will focus on ferry safety, emergency preparedness, risk management and international safety best practices. LASWA described the 18-month initiative as Africa’s first structured ferry professional development programme and said it is intended to develop the next generation of ferry professionals on the continent.