LASWA, Interferry advance seamanship training under ferry safety development programme

The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), in partnership with Interferry, has delivered Module Two (Seamanship) of the Ferry Safety Development Programme (FSDP), marking another milestone in Africa’s first structured ferry professional development initiative.

The module focused on Ropes and Knots, Mooring and Anchoring, and Deck Maintenance. Through self-paced learning, virtual mentoring, expert engagement, and practical field exercises, participants strengthened the technical knowledge and practical skills required for safe and efficient ferry operations.

As part of the module, participants attended an “Ask the Expert” virtual session on June 17, 2026 featuring Mr. Jeff Joyce, Interferry Mentor and Vice President, Marine Operations, Northumberland Ferries Limited. He shared practical insights on seamanship, ferry operations, maritime safety, leadership, and international best practices while engaging participants in an interactive knowledge-sharing session.

The practical component was held at Sea School, Apapa, under the leadership of the Programme Coordinator, Engineer Ukeme Sunday, and facilitated by Sea School Coordinator, Dr. Ekundayo and seven experienced maritime instructors.

The 50 participants were divided into three groups, each receiving hands-on training in rope identification, rope handling, knot tying, line management, and the practical application of knots used in ferry operations.

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The exercises were supervised by seven seasoned maritime instructors, providing participants with valuable real-world experience that reinforced teamwork, operational competence, and onboard safety.

Speaking on the significance of the programme, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Blue Economy, Mr. Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, noted that the practical sessions complemented the programme’s virtual mentoring and self-paced learning by exposing participants to real-life operational environments and international best practices.

LASWA appreciated Lagos Ferry Services Company Limited (LAGFERRY) and Thesaurus Bay Limited for providing ferries for the practical session, Interferry for sponsoring the programme, Mrs Shari Corrigan for her exceptional support, Mr. Jeff Joyce for sharing his expertise, Dr. Ekundayo and the management of Sea School, Apapa, for facilitating the practical training, and the Lagos State Government for its continued commitment to maritime safety and capacity development.

As Africa’s first 18-month Ferry Safety Development Programme, the initiative is designed to strengthen technical competence, operational excellence, leadership, and safety culture while developing the next generation of ferry professionals across the continent.

With 16 months remaining, the programme now advances to Module Three: Ferry Safety in July 2026. Participants will explore emergency preparedness, risk management, and international safety best practices in another engaging module aimed at further strengthening safety culture and operational excellence across Africa’s inland waterways.