Lagos: LASWA, NIWA launch joint campaign to prevent holiday boat accidents
Lagos State Waterways Authority, LASWA, and the National Inland Waterways Authority, NIWA, have launched an intensified safety campaign ahead of the heavy travel expected on the waterways this December.
In a joint statement, both agencies stressed the need for full compliance with safety rules, urging boat operators and passengers to play their part in reducing preventable incidents across Lagos inland waterways.
The statement outlined new mandatory guidelines for all commercial and private boat operators, including:
Provision and strict enforcement of certified life jackets for all passengers;
Properly documented passenger manifests before every trip;
A ban on commercial boat operations after 7:00 p.m.;
Routine inspection of vessels and engines before departure;
Adherence to approved passenger capacity and weight limits;
Use of only certified captains to operate passenger boats;
Close monitoring of weather alerts and suspension of trips when advised.
To strengthen enforcement during the festive season, LASWA and NIWA announced that their Joint Search and Rescue Teams, along with Water Guards, would increase patrols around major waterways and terminals.
Passengers were also advised to cooperate with safety protocols by correctly wearing life jackets, boarding only at designated jetties, refraining from pressuring captains to speed, and reporting any unsafe conduct to LASWA or NIWA officials.
Both agencies reaffirmed their commitment to collaborating with stakeholders to ensure a safe, reliable, and accident-free water transport experience for all users during the holidays.
