To curb barge accidents on the country’s waterways, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, Nigerian Ports Authority, National Inland Waterways Authority and Lagos State Waterways Authority have commenced joint inspection of barge operations along Lagos inland waterways.
The General Manager of LASWA, Mr. Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, after he inspection on Thursday, stated that the group visited Kirikiri Lighter Terminal to detain barges with uncertified crew members and shut unlicensed container terminals around the axis.
He said they also warned barge operators and other waterways stakeholders to always adhere to waterways rules and regulations or risk sanction.
The LASWA boss reiterated the commitment of the Lagos government to the safety of life and property on the waterways, while encouraging sustainable investment in the water transport sector.
According to the team, the exercise will continue until the waterways are free of unqualified craft crews and substandard jetties.
In a related development, the new Water Guards of LASWA are undergoing training in preparation for deployment to various jetties and terminals within the state.
The new officers were trained on marine safety, pre-boarding check, fire fighting drill, operational hazards, crowd control, first aid and conflict resolution.
