Lagos, Nigeria — As travel activities increase across water transport corridors this December, the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) and the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) have announced a strengthened, collaborative safety and security campaign to ensure safer passenger movement during the festive season.
The joint effort reinforces the commitment of both agencies to safeguarding lives, promoting seamless operations, and enhancing stakeholder cooperation across all inland waterways in Lagos.
“Safety on our waterways is not negotiable,” stated the Special Adviser to the Governor on the Blue Economy. “This collaboration with NIWA amplifies our enforcement capacity and improves coordination with security agencies, vessel operators, and local communities to ensure a secure and joyful festive season for all waterway users.”
Key Pillars of the Joint LASWA–NIWA Festive Safety & Security Strategy
- Enhanced Joint Patrols
Coordinated patrols by LASWA, NIWA, Marine Police, and community safety volunteers along major routes and terminals, especially during peak periods and at night. - Unified Vessel Safety Compliance
• Joint safety checks and inspections on all commercial passenger vessels before and during the holidays.
• Random spot checks to enforce regulatory compliance, operational licensing, and safety equipment standards. - Advanced Weather & Water Condition Monitoring
Real-time monitoring and swift safety advisories to operators and commuters, including route adjustments where needed. - Strict Zero-Alcohol Boarding Policy
Passengers and crew members showing signs of intoxication will be denied boarding to protect all onboard.
Responsibilities of Passengers & Operators
PASSENGERS SHOULD:
• Wear life jackets properly as required.
• Obey safety instructions from crew and authorities.
• Avoid boarding overloaded vessels.
• Supervise children and report suspicious or unsafe activities.
OPERATORS MUST:
• Ensure valid licenses, complete passenger manifests, and updated safety equipment.
• Display emergency contact signage clearly.
• Maintain properly trained crews and enforce capacity limits.
Reporting an Incident
Passengers and operators may report emergencies to:
• The nearest LASWA or NIWA official at terminals, or
• The hotline numbers prominently displayed at jetties and terminals.
“This season is a time for celebration, and we can only achieve safe and enjoyable travels when everyone—regulators, operators, and passengers—plays their part,” the Area Manager, NIWA Lagos Area Office, added. “Together, we will ensure safe navigation and compliance on all waterways.
