LASWA moves to reduce rescue time

The Lagos State Government has said that the joint Search and Rescue Simulation by the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) would reduce rescue time and boost passenger confidence in water transportation.

The Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr Oluwaseun Osiyemi, said this during the joint exercise held in Lagos on Thursday.

Osiyemi said that the collaborative endeavour should recognise that emergencies and disasters know no boundaries, and a unified, well-coordinated response was paramount.

According to him, in a world where global challenges demand global solutions, the importance of joint efforts in search and rescue operations cannot be overstated.

“Our interconnectedness and shared vulnerabilities underscore the need for seamless cooperation among our organisations and communities.

”Today’s joint simulation marks a crucial step in fostering the unity and interoperability required to face the unpredictable challenges on our inland waterways.

“This exercise is a testament to our commitment to preparedness, response, and recovery.

“By bringing together diverse expertise, resources, and perspectives, we strengthen our capabilities and create a formidable force capable of tackling the most complex and demanding scenarios we will face,”Osiyemi said.

He said that collaboration was not just an option but a necessity in search and rescue, adding that the joint exercise allowed them to simulate scenarios that mirror the reality.

He said that emergency rescue required them to navigate language barriers, cultural differences, and logistical challenges.

Osiyemi said the state government had identified areas for improvement and built a foundation of trust as well as understanding that transcended the diversity and functions.

The commissioner commended Nigerian Navy (Western Naval Command), Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, Marine Police, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, Lagos State Fire Service, Lagos State Ambulance Services and transport stakeholders.

Rear Adm. Mustapha Hassan, Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, said the advent of the Blue Economy and push for development came up with idea of taking Lagos residents off the road and being more water friendly.

Hassan, also the Commander, Joint Taskforce, said the exercise was the collaborative efforts of the Nigerian Navy, NIMASA, LASWA and other stakeholders.

He said it was in line with ensuring that water transportation was safer for transporters.

“The rescue exercise of today went successfully and we are happy about it.

“I was speaking with the commissioner for transport and he has given assurance of the Lagos State support.

”We plan to have deployment at critical spots in the inland waters of Lagos, which will reduce the traffic time to accident spots,” Hassan said.

He said that there were plans by the Nigerian Navy and NIMASA to conduct search and rescue operation offshore to boost confidence of the international traders.

The General Manager, LASWA, Mr Oluwodamilola Emmanuel, said that emergencies and disasters could strike at any moment.

He said the ability to respond swiftly and effectively was not just a capability but a necessity.

He explained that search and rescue simulations serve as invaluable tools in preparing the emergency responders for the unpredictable challenges they may face in the field.

“These exercises provide a controlled environment where teams can hone their skills, test their strategies, and refine their coordination, ultimately ensuring a more proficient and coordinated response when real crises unfold.

”The significance of well-executed search and rescue simulations cannot be overstated as we navigate an era of increasing complexity and diversity in potential emergencies, from natural disasters to industrial accidents.

These exercises not only enhance the technical expertise of our first responders but also foster a culture of collaboration and adaptability, two qualities crucial for success in dynamic and high-pressure situations.

“Today, as we delve into the world of simulated rescue scenarios, let us remain mindful of the lives that depend on the effectiveness of our response efforts.

“Through meticulous preparation and strategic training, we can truly make a difference in safeguarding our communities and mitigating the impact of disasters,” Emmanuel said.

He said that the rescue collaboration initiative would be extended to Ikorodu area on Lagos before the end of first quarter of 2024 after which it the exercise would be taken to Badagry and other parts of the state.

Emmanuel said that LASWA had already set up search and rescue point at Ipakodo area of Ikorodu and Ojo axis to enable them response as close as possible to rescue call.

The Director General, NIMASA, Dr Bashir Jamoh, who was represented by Director Deep Blue of NIMASA, Mr Otonye Obom, said the collaboration was the initiative of the agency, adding that securing safety on the waterways would make Blue Economy to thrive.

It was reported that all the emergency stakeholders were well represented.