NIWA, LASWA begin waterways safety campaign

The National Inland Waterways Authority, in collaboration with Lagos State Waterways Authority and Bras Marine Limited, has launched a joint safety campaign to promote best practices and reduce accidents on Lagos waterways.

A Wednesday statement noted that the stakeholders at the conference to mark the launch in Lagos emphasised that the safety campaign would involve sensitisation programmes, operator training, and stricter monitoring of boat operations.

Speaking at the event, the Area Manager of NIWA, Sarat Buraimo, said the partnership represented a critical turning point.

“Our goal is simple: to reduce accidents on our waterways to the barest minimum. We want every passenger and every operator to understand that safety is non-negotiable. Whether you are boarding a ferry in Lagos or crossing a river in another state, we want Nigerians to know they can trust the system

We are not just here to sensitise the public, we are here to strengthen enforcement. Operators who flout safety regulations like overloading, lack of life jackets, and poor maintenance must know that we are watching and we will not hesitate to apply sanctions where necessary,” Buraimo said.

Also speaking, LASWA General Manager, Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, stated that the collaboration among government agencies, private sector players, and boat operators was to curb accidents and protect lives on the waterways.

“We need the cooperation of all relevant stakeholders. The government cannot do it alone. In terms of safety and awareness, we need the support of private sector organisations,” Emmanuel said.

The Chairman of Bras Marine Limited, Prince Yomi Sonuga, noted that overcrowding and mechanical failures remained serious threats on the waterways.