Boat mishaps: CFAO Yamaha, LASWA distribute 100 lifejackets
To improve safety on Lagos waterways, CFAO Yamaha, in collaboration with the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), has launched a new safety campaign with the distribution of over 100 lifejackets at two of the city’s busiest jetties—Liverpool and Ebute. The initiative, titled King of the Waterways, is aimed at fostering a stronger safety culture among […]
To improve safety on Lagos waterways, CFAO Yamaha, in collaboration with the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), has launched a new safety campaign with the distribution of over 100 lifejackets at two of the city’s busiest jetties—Liverpool and Ebute.
The initiative, titled King of the Waterways, is aimed at fostering a stronger safety culture among boat operators and passengers as water transportation gains popularity in the state.
Speaking at the launch, Managing Director of CFAO Yamaha, Mrs Sylvia Omlenyi, described the campaign as a life-saving intervention. “This campaign is about saving lives. We are proud to partner with LASWA to ensure that every journey on our waterways is a safe one. Lifejackets are not just accessories—they are essential,” she said.
Also present was the Group Managing Director of CFAO Mobility, Mr Denis Martin, who reiterated the company’s commitment to public safety. “At CFAO, safety is not just a priority—it’s a responsibility. Our partnership with LASWA is a testament to what can be achieved when the public and private sectors work together for the greater good,” he said.
LASWA officials echoed these sentiments, saying the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to reducing accidents and fatalities on Lagos waterways, which have seen a surge in usage in recent years due to efforts to ease road congestion.
Boat operators welcomed the gesture. Chairman of the Association of Tourist Boat Operators and Water Transporters of Nigeria (ATBOWATON), Babatope Fajemirokun, said the initiative was a timely reminder of the need for shared responsibility. “This initiative is a powerful reminder that safety on our waterways is a shared responsibility. We are proud to support efforts like this that provide essential safety gear and promote accountability,” he said.
A ferry captain at Ebute Jetty also praised the effort, calling it a step in the right direction. “It’s encouraging to see companies like CFAO Yamaha stepping in. Safety should be everyone’s responsibility,” he said.
CFAO Yamaha said more lifejacket distributions and safety awareness campaigns will be held in phases across other key jetties in Lagos and surrounding regions.