LAGOS — In a bid to enhance inland water transport safety and promote the blue economy, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has donated a significant number of life jackets to the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA).
The donation ceremony, held at LASWA’s headquarters at the Five Cowries Terminal in Lagos, underscored the Federal Government’s commitment to building a secure and efficient water transport system across the country, with Lagos—Nigeria’s busiest waterways hub—taking centre stage.
Speaking during the event, Oyetola emphasized the critical role of safety in unlocking the economic potential of Nigeria’s marine and blue economy. He noted that life jackets are a vital part of any water safety framework and encouraged consistent use by all waterway users.
“This initiative reinforces our dedication to not only expanding the nation’s blue economy but also to ensuring that every stakeholder, especially passengers and operators, is protected while navigating our waters,” the minister said.
The donation supports LASWA’s ongoing efforts to promote safety awareness and enforce the compulsory use of life jackets. It also comes as part of a broader public sensitization campaign on water safety, which was highlighted by a live demonstration on the correct use of life jackets.
The event saw active participation from several agencies, including the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), the Marine Police, and officials from the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, reflecting a strong inter-agency collaboration.
CHIEF Executive Officer of LASWA, Damilola Emmanuel, expressed gratitude for the donation, stating it would significantly bolster safety measures and encourage greater public confidence in water transport.
“This kind of support from the Federal Government helps strengthen our resolve to make waterways not just an alternative, but a preferred mode of transport for Lagosians,” Emmanuel said.
The initiative marks another step in deepening the integration of Nigeria’s inland waterways into its broader transport infrastructure, reducing pressure on the roads while advancing maritime safety standards.
