Sustainable Waterways Awareness Advancement Advocacy (SWAAADO) has continued its waterways safety sensitisation campaign across Ilufemiloye, Irede and Igbayilola Tie-Gate communities, reinforcing its commitment to promoting safer water transportation in Lagos State.
The sensitisation exercise, held on Thursday, February 12, 2026, brought together key stakeholders in the maritime sector, including representatives of Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), and Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA). Also in attendance were the Baale of the community, fishermen, boat drivers, marine workers, and representatives of the Tie-Gate Jetty leadership.
Speaking at the event, Chief Gold Raymond, Head of Desk, Corporate Communication and Strategy at SWAAADO, highlighted plans for a comprehensive training programme for jetty and waterways operators. He explained that the training, in partnership with Swyre Marine Services Limited, an organisation accredited by NIMASA, is aimed at certifying operators to ensure professionalism and reduce regulatory interference from government authorities.
According to him, certification would enhance safety standards and promote seamless operations across the waterways.
Representing Swyre Marine Services Limited, Ms. Ada stressed the urgency for operators to enrol in the upcoming training. She noted that certification would soon become a compulsory requirement, warning that untrained operators risk facing sanctions when enforcement begins.
“A time will come soon when, if you are not trained and certified, the government will come for you,” she cautioned, urging operators to take advantage of the opportunity once registration opens.
Also addressing participants, Engr. Shittu Adedimeji of LASWA explained that the agency was established to regulate and promote waterways activities while encouraging investments in water transportation across Lagos State. He assured the community that LASWA’s search and rescue teams are readily available to respond to emergencies, including boat leakages and other water-related incidents.
“For boat operators, you must ensure compliance with the provisions of the law,” he said, adding that non-compliance attracts consequences.
Engr. Shittu further charged community members to play active roles in ensuring safety by promptly reporting emergencies, noting that search and rescue operations are time-sensitive. He also reiterated LASWA’s commitment to promoting environmental sustainability along the waterways.
As part of the sensitisation, LASWA emphasised key safety measures, including the compulsory use of life jackets, avoidance of night travel, refraining from sailing during bad weather, and abstaining from alcohol while operating boats.
The agency also called for volunteers between the ages of 18 and above who are physically fit, promising to train and empower selected youths as part of its safety support initiatives.
During the interactive session, a community leader raised concerns about the alleged absence of paddles in some boats. However, the Baale promptly clarified that paddles were available.
Community members also appealed for the construction of a more befitting jetty, stating that the current facility becomes congested and uncomfortable during peak traffic periods. LASWA officials acknowledged the concern and assured the community that it would be addressed.
Several residents expressed appreciation for SWAAADO’s intervention. A female member of the community described the sensitisation campaign as “a light,” noting that prior to the initiative, many were unaware of laws regulating boat operations, including age restrictions for operators.
She stressed that teenagers should not be allowed to pilot boats without proper training. Echoing similar concerns, Mr. Destiny, a community member, insisted that all boat drivers must possess valid licences and wear identifiable jackets as certified captains.
While acknowledging debates around the age of boat captains, he emphasised that the real issue is not youthfulness but lack of experience.
“Life is very important,” he said, warning that inexperienced operators put passengers at risk.
The community pledged continued support for SWAAADO’s efforts, assuring stakeholders that the sensitisation campaign would not be in vain as they work collectively to enhance safety across the waterways.
