LASWA commences distribution of life jackets to riverine communities. 

The distribution which kicked off in Epe with about 500 jackets, is intended to encourage water transportation and improve safety on the state Inland waterways.

In a press statement made available to our correspondent by the Public Relations Officer of the Authority, Nkechi Ajayi, the beneficiaries include riverine schools, boat operators, and market women from the coastal communities in Epe.

The statement read, “The distribution exercise at the Epe marina waterfront had Royal fathers, political leaders, riverine area school pupils, and other significant stakeholders in the water transport sector within the Epe community.

“Speaking at the event, the General Manager Lagos State Waterways Authority, Mr. Oluwadamilola Emmanuel; said through LASWA, the Lagos State Government has embarked on a series of policy reforms, programs, and investments to promote and facilitate water transport provision to realize its potential to become an attractive mode of transportation.

“This Life Jacket Donation Exercise is one of the many programs that promotes and facilitates water transport. He stated that LASWA embarked on this program to help the people of Lagos State, both old and young, cultivate the habit of wearing lifejackets. This is vital to the growth of water transportation by reducing fatalities on the waterways.

“He also urged boat operators to strictly adhere to safety guidelines and ensure no one can board their ferries without wearing a standard life jacket.

“Beneficiaries at the event included school children and their teachers from several riverine communities, market women and commercial boat operators, and other invited beneficiaries”, it stated.