NSIB, LASWA Partner To Strengthen Safety On Lagos Waterways
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) and the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) have commenced plans to formalise a partnership aimed at improving safety standards and preventing accidents on Lagos inland waterways.
The move followed a working visit by the Director-General of NSIB, Capt. Alex Badeh Jr., to the General Manager of LASWA and Lagos State Special Adviser on Transportation and Blue Economy, Mr. Oluwadamilola Emmanuel.
During the meeting, both agencies agreed to develop a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will provide a framework for collaboration in areas including accident investigation, safety awareness, data sharing, capacity building and the development of improved safety practices across the waterways sector.
Badeh commended the Lagos State Government for its investments in water transportation infrastructure, noting that the growth of the state’s waterways system required stronger cooperation among safety stakeholders.
He explained that the NSIB, whose mandate covers investigations across multiple transport sectors, remains focused on identifying the causes of accidents and providing recommendations to prevent future occurrences.
“Our role remains investigative and preventive. We are a non-punitive agency focused on identifying root causes and recommending measures that will help prevent future occurrences,” Badeh said.
He added that the proposed partnership would support operator training, technical knowledge exchange, vessel safety assessments, community awareness programmes and the implementation of evidence-based safety measures.
The NSIB boss also highlighted the bureau’s specialised laboratories, which provide scientific and technical support for transportation accident investigations.
Speaking during the meeting, LASWA General Manager, Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, stressed the importance of inter-agency collaboration in achieving Lagos State’s goal of developing a safe and sustainable water transport system.
He pointed to the ongoing Omi-Eko Water Transport Project, a major initiative supported by the French Development Agency and the European Commission, which seeks to improve urban water mobility through modern ferries, electric vessels, jetties, passenger terminals and maintenance facilities.
Emmanuel said safety remained a critical component of the project’s success, adding that collaboration with NSIB would help strengthen operational standards across Lagos waterways.
The meeting ended with the establishment of a six-member committee comprising representatives from both agencies to develop the framework for the proposed MoU and define areas of cooperation.
The partnership is expected to enhance accident prevention, improve safety monitoring and promote a more efficient inland water transportation system in Lagos.
