The management of the Lagos Ferry Services (LAGFERRY) has been tasked to ensure the deployment and application of the latest technology in all areas of its operations to improve water transportation systems and impact positively on the economy of the State.
Mr. Wasiu Jimoh, the team leader, Software/Web Development, Lagos State Ministry of Science and Technology, gave the charge during LAGFERRY’s management retreat with the theme, “Innovative Water Transportation for a 21st Century Economy”, held at the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON) Badagry.
His words: “There is an urgent need to take an inventory of our existing technology deployment and work towards innovating new ideas to enhance service delivery in this critical and important sector of the economy. An improved water transportation system in Lagos State, using the latest technology, would impact positively on the economy of the State”.
While defining innovation as simply a new idea, device or method, Jimoh outlined key areas that would enhance the performance of LAGFERRY such as the introduction of a fully-automated ticketing system using the best payment solution, acquisition of ferries that are energy efficient and monitored in real-time, a very efficient safety and rescue system employing the use of CCTVs, Drones and Unmanned Water Robots among others.
Other areas identified that require innovation, according to him, include Marketing and Communication using the social media platform for engagement, quality assurance and feedback, enhancing the boat experience with added services like movies and internet onboard.
The General Manager, Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), Mr. Damilola Emmanuel, expressed confidence in the ability of LAGFERRY to achieve the State government’s mandate of ferrying 30% of Lagosians via waterways and decongesting road traffic.
While reassuring private operators that LAGFERRY was not established to run them out of business but to complement their efforts, Emmanuel gave an assurance that adequate regulations will be introduced to boost water transportation and provide a level playing field for all operators.
Earlier, in his welcome address by a Deputy Director, LAGFERRY, Mr. Akeem Odusina, identified unwavering government support, teamwork, regular workshops, training and seminars as some of the reasons for the remarkable achievements recorded in the short period of operations.
