Lagos waterways safety: LASWA ,YAMAHA kick-start  Jackets distribution at Liverpool, Ebute Jetties

…Embarks on community engagement to mark 2025 World Ocean Day

By Ezurike Ugochukwu 

In a deliberate and sustained effort to ensure reasonable safety on Lagos waterways, the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) in collaboration with YAMAHA has commenced a life jacket distribution exercise at Liverpool and Ebute jetties.

The distribution exercise which aligns with LASWA’s goal of promoting and enforcing safety on waterways by ensuring strict compliance to use of safety gear on waterways is aptly first phase of a broader campaign of its kind.

LASWA commends YAMAHA for this proactive step towards safeguarding lives and look forward to continued collaboration in making Lagos waterways safer for all.

Also as part of activities marking the 2025 World Oceans Day Celebration, the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) on Wednesday June 4th, 2025, joined forces with the Lekan Bakare Foundation in a community-focused engagement at Ago Egun, Makoko.

Themed “Strengthening Community Compliance for Safer Waterways and Sustainable Fishing,” the event featured enlightening lectures aimed at raising awareness about the importance of safety, environmental responsibility, and sustainable fishing practices among coastal dwellers.

Key stakeholders present included representatives from the Nigerian Institute for Oceanography and Marine Research (NIOMR), Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), and the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture, who all contributed expert insights and practical knowledge tailored to the unique needs of the Ago Egun community.

As part of LASWA’s commitment to enhancing safety on Lagos inland waterways, life jackets were donated to local fishermen to promote safe practices during daily fishing and water transportation activities.

Speaking at the event, LASWA representatives emphasized the agency’s continued dedication to community outreach, water safety education, and collaborative partnerships that protect both people and marine resources.

This engagement marks another step forward in fostering responsible waterway use and empowering coastal communities to become active stewards of their environment.