The Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), says it has continued the yearly distribution of life jackets to riverine communities as part of efforts to reduce fatalities and hazards associated with boat mishaps.
The Head of Operations at LASWA, Mr. Oladosu Ibrahim, disclosed this while featuring on Issues in the News, a Radio One 103.5 FM news magazine programme.
Mr. Ibrahim explained that the life jacket distribution exercise is targeted at vulnerable riverine and coastal communities across the state to strengthen compliance with water transportation safety standards.
According to him, LASWA also organizes water safety awareness campaigns, swimming training for school pupils, and enforces regulations against night travel and boat overloading.
Contributing, LASWA Ferry Operations Officer, Mr. Kazeem Omidiran, said the agency regularly trains its maritime workforce, including Water Guards, to improve ferry safety practices and emergency preparedness.
Mr. Omidiran added that Water Guards stationed across ferry terminals in Lagos enforce restrictions on commercial boat operations during adverse weather conditions and prohibit boat movements after 7 p.m.
Also speaking, the Head of Health, Safety, Security and Environment Unit, Mr. Oladimeji Shittu, advised waterway users to remain security conscious and strictly adhere to safety protocols.
He urged passengers and operators to report incidents of boat overloading, over speeding, and other suspected illegal activities to the appropriate authorities.
Written by Bukola Abe