The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) has honoured two of its distinguished marine professionals, Prince Gbadamosi Hakeem and Captain Shakirudeen Lamidi, as they retire from the Lagos State Civil Service after 35 years of meritorious service.
The Authority celebrated the two retirees for their decades of commitment to marine operations, navigational safety and the development of water transportation in Lagos State.
For Prince Hakeem, retirement brings to a close a distinguished career in marine operations management, where he earned a reputation as one of LASWA’s foremost Marine Operations Supervisors.
Affectionately known among members of his team as “Number 1”, Hakeem was responsible for ensuring the maintenance, deployment and operational readiness of LASWA’s fleet of boats.
He also supervised daily fleet operations and coordinated the activities of captains and deckhands across the state’s waterways, contributing significantly to improved operational standards and safety compliance.
Beyond his operational responsibilities, his professionalism and commitment to excellence made him an important mentor to younger marine personnel. Through years of guidance and practical experience, he helped nurture a new generation of boat captains and other marine professionals.
Hakeem began his public service career with the defunct Lagos State Ferry Corporation before moving to LASWA, bringing with him extensive experience and institutional knowledge that proved valuable to the Authority and the wider waterways sector.
Lamidi’s Life on the Water
For Captain Shakirudeen Lamidi, retirement marks the end of a remarkable career spent largely on the waterways of Lagos.
A seasoned mariner and respected senior boat captain, Lamidi witnessed and participated in the evolution of water transportation in the state over several decades.
He also started his career with the Lagos State Ferry Corporation before joining LASWA in 2008.
Throughout his service, Lamidi distinguished himself through his professionalism, navigational expertise and commitment to waterways safety.
His calm leadership, deep knowledge of the Lagos waterways and dedication to duty earned him the respect of colleagues, passengers and other stakeholders.
Like Hakeem, he also played an important mentoring role, passing on practical maritime knowledge and experience to younger captains and helping to strengthen the continuity of professional expertise within the sector.
Two Careers, One Legacy
As the two professionals begin a new chapter, LASWA said their contributions would remain part of the history and development of water transportation in Lagos State.
Their 35 years of service represent decades of discipline, dedication and practical experience that helped strengthen marine operations and support the growth of the state’s waterways transportation system.
LASWA expressed appreciation to Prince Gbadamosi Hakeem and Captain Shakirudeen Lamidi for their outstanding service, wishing them good health, happiness and fulfilment in retirement.
The Authority congratulated the two retirees, describing them as distinguished ambassadors whose contributions to the Lagos waterways sector would be remembered.