The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) has revealed that 83.8% of the 729 boats and ferries currently operating on Lagos’ inland waterways are run by informal ferry services. This figure leaves only 13.3% as standard ferries, while Lagferry boats comprise the remaining portion.
In its recent report, LASWA highlighted that the state’s inland waterways can transport an average of 54,000 commuters daily. There are 57 existing routes across the state, including 10 priority and 47 feeder routes.
To address safety concerns and improve operations on the water, LASWA announced its partnership with the Maritime Organisation of West and Central Africa (MOWCA) and the global ferry safety body, Interferry Association. Together, they plan to host a regional ferry safety conference focused on improving standards and practices on Lagos waters.
Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, Managing Director of LASWA, emphasised the value of the collaboration. He noted that working with international experts offers a chance to gain insights into better safety practices across different regions.
Interferry, which promotes ferry safety across Europe, the Americas, Asia, and Africa, is expected to bring its global experience to help boost the safety of Lagos’ growing water transport system.
