LASWA Collaborative Effort to Enhance Safety on Lagos Inland waterways

The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) with other key agencies such as the Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), the Nigerian Navy, Western Naval Command, Marine Police, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Lagos State Fire Service (LSFS), Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASAMBUS), carried out a comprehensive Joint Marine Search and Rescue Simulation Exercise.

The event which was held on Thursday December 21, 2023 had Lagos State Governor, LASWA General Manager, the Director-General of NIMASA, Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, alongside other reputable personnel of the maritime industry.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu who was represented by the Commissioner for Transportation Lagos State, Mr. Seun Osiyemi, in his speech emphasized on the significance of a joint simulation search and rescue exercise. The exercise enhance collaborative effort of various organizations aimed towards the preparedness and response capabilities in spite of emergencies and disasters.

He further acknowledged the global nature of challenges we face today and stressed the importance of joint efforts in finding global solutions.The joint simulation exercise served as a platform to bring together diverse expertise, resources, and perspectives.

The General Manager Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), Mr. Damilola Emmanuel, delivered a speech which keyed on the importance of such initiatives in bolstering the overall safety and security measures along the inland waterways of Lagos.

The GM concluded that search and rescue simulation exercises play a vital role in equipping emergency responders with the necessary skills and experience to effectively handle crises. The dedication and commitment of organizations such as the Nigerian Navy, Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, and others in conducting these simulations are crucial for the safety and well-being of the community.

Also speaking at the event was Rear Admiral Mustapha Bala Hassan, the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Nigerian Navy, who highlighted the importance of collaboration in advancing Nigeria’s blue economy. He reiterated that this initiative aims to encourage Lagosians to shift their transportation focus from roads to water, reducing congestion.

The Director-General of NIMASA, Dr. Bashir Jambo, expressed his strong support for the collaboration, stating that ensuring safety and security on our waterways is crucial for the success of the blue economy.

This collaborative effort is aimed to assess the preparedness of agencies involved in marine emergency and reassure the public of a heightened level of safety and security along the Lagos Inland Waterways