LASWA GM, Mr Oluwadamilola Emmanuel during the event
By Babatunde Kaka
Ekohotblog reports that a member House of Representatives, representing Epe Federal Constituency, Hon Wale Raji MHR, on Wednesday called on boat operators and waterways transporters to exhibit a synergetic relationship with the Lagos State Waterways Authority(LASWA).
Hon Raji made this call in Epe where the Lagos Waterways Authority (LASWA) distributed 500 lifejackets to students, boat operators, fishermen and other waterway users in Riverine Communities across Epe.
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Represented by his Senior Legislative Aide, Mr Hassan Bashiru, the Lawmaker lauded the agency for deeming it fit to carry out the life-saving exercise in the riverine communities.
Left: Hon Abiodun Tobun, Lagos State House of Assembly Member, Epe Constituency 1.
He acknowledged the agency for the gesture and obliged boat operators within Epe to register with the agency and comply with all safety regulations.
Member, Lagos State House of Assembly (Epe Constituency 1), Hon Tobun Abiodun, in his remarks appreciated the agency for making his constituents a priority.
He however vowed to work with the Local Government and other stakeholders to ensure boat operators and other stakeholders cooperate with the Agency.
This online media gathered that the General Manager of LASWA, Mr Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, proclaimed in his opening remarks that the agency is distributing 3000 life jackets across Lagos out of which 500 is allocated to riverine dwellers and waterway users in Epe.
However, he bemoaned the uncooperative disposition of boat operators with the Agency, noting that the operators are not maximizing the enormous benefits attached.
He, therefore, advised the boat operators operating in Epe to register with the agency.
In his remarks, Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Board Member representing Epe Divison, Hon Hakeem Shittu who applauded the agency for the life-saving initiative, urged them to work with the local government to get the boat operators to register with them.
Head of Inspection and Safety, LASWA, Engineer Sunday Ukeme, harped on the need for boat operators to not only provide life jackets for the safety of their passengers but also provide different sizes that suits them.
He revealed that the jackets being donated come with other accessories such as a whistle to alert passersby in case of emergency, buckle, etc.
He further condemned the notion that the swimming abilities of riverine dwellers shouldn’t be an excuse for ditching the use of life jackets, noting that there are unforeseen circumstances that may hamper their swimming ability.
Chairman of Epe Local Government, Princess Surah Animashaun who was represented by the Vice-Chairman, Hon. Sikiru Owolomoshe appraised the agency but urged the agency to target the right beneficiaries.
The Local Government Education Authority (LGEA) Secretary, Mr Odubela, also applauded the agency for the initiative and promised to continue to support the agency when needed.
The event was well attended by representatives of Traditional leaders, Market leaders, Boat operators and other stakeholders.
See photos from the event:
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