The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) has ramped up safety enforcement across major ferry terminals and jetties in a sweeping operation aimed at tightening compliance and improving standards in water transport operations across the state.
The intensified inspection exercise covered key locations including Ipakodo, Bayeku, Ijede, Ebute-Ero, Liverpool, Sabokoji, Alex, and Coconut terminals, with a strong focus on vessel seaworthiness and life jacket safety compliance.
In the course of the operation, LASWA officials confiscated and removed 120 defective life jackets from circulation, describing them as a serious risk to passenger safety. The Authority emphasized that such substandard safety equipment will not be tolerated on Lagos waterways.
Findings from the inspections revealed varying levels of compliance among operators. While a number of ferry operators met required safety standards, others were flagged for deficiencies, particularly in vessel maintenance and safety gear quality.
LASWA stressed that adherence to safety protocols especially regarding boat condition and the use of certified life jackets remains mandatory and non-negotiable.
The Authority further declared that enforcement actions will be sustained and expanded across all ferry terminals to ensure full compliance with established safety regulations. Operators have been reminded of their legal responsibility to maintain seaworthy vessels and provide passengers with approved and functional life jackets at all times.
Reaffirming its commitment, LASWA stated that it will continue to prioritise passenger safety while building a more reliable, efficient, and well-regulated waterways transportation system in Lagos State.