The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, has taken a significant step towards enhancing water safety in Lagos State.

The ministrynon Wednesday, May 28 donated 3,500 lifejackets to the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) as part of its initiative to foster a culture of safety on Nigeria’s waterways

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, represented by Dr. Mercy Ilori, Director of Marine Services, emphasized the importance of water safety and the need for collaboration with state and local governments to achieve sustainable results.

He noted that the distribution of lifejackets is part of the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes life-saving interventions to bring about tangible change.

The Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, appreciated the federal government’s efforts and acknowledged the impact of the initiative on water safety in the state.

The Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, emphasized the importance of safety on waterways and the need for collective responsibility.

The General Manager of LASWA, Mr. Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, expressed gratitude for the donation and assured that the authority would ensure proper distribution and utilization of the lifejackets. He also highlighted the need for legislation to criminalize non-use of lifejackets on waterways.

This initiative is a step towards reducing the risk of accidents and fatalities on Nigeria’s waterways, and it demonstrates the government’s commitment to prioritizing the safety of its citizens.