FG Donates Life Jackets to Boost Safety on Lagos Waterways 

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola 

In a bid to improve safety on Nigeria’s waterways, the Federal Government has donated life jackets to the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA). The event took place on Wednesday at the LASWA headquarters located at the Five Cowries Terminal in Lagos. 

The donation, presented by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, through the Director of Maritime Services, Mercy Ilori, marks a key step in the government’s efforts to promote safer and more efficient water transport across the country, particularly in Lagos—the busiest waterway hub in Nigeria. 

Prioritizing Safety in the Blue Economy 

Oyetola explained that the initiative aligns with the national goal of unlocking the full potential of the blue economy while ensuring public safety. 

    “It gives me great pleasure to witness this important event, aimed at enhancing safety on Nigeria’s inland waterways. We sincerely appreciate Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to redefining water transportation in Lagos,” he said. 

He noted that similar campaigns had already been carried out in Niger, Bayelsa, Anambra, and Akwa Ibom States, and will soon continue in other coastal states. The initiative aims to prevent fatalities caused by the lack of safety measures, particularly the use of life jackets. 

Boosting Public Confidence in Water Travel 

Speaking on behalf of the Lagos State Government, Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, highlighted how life jackets would help improve public trust in water transport. He noted that the state’s multimodal transport system—including rail, road, and water—relies heavily on safety to gain public acceptance. 

“Our commitment is to end the avoidable loss of lives on Nigerian waterways. By promoting life-saving interventions like this, we are building a safer and more efficient water transport system for all.” 

— Adegboyega Oyetola, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy 

This donation reflects a serious commitment by both federal and state governments to transform and secure Nigeria’s inland waterways. With safety tools like life jackets and better boats, more Nigerians may soon embrace water travel as a reliable and safe means of transportation.