By Sandra Chukwunyere
The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) has embarked on a mission to empower young Lagosians with essential water safety skills, commencing the fifth edition of its Water Savvy Kids Program in Badagry Local Government Area. This initiative is part of LASWA’s sustained efforts to promote water safety and reduce the fear of water among young residents.
In a collaborative effort with the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) and the Dolphin Swim School (DSS), LASWA aims to equip pupils with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in water safety, swimming techniques, and basic emergency survival skills. The program, which kicked off on Monday, October 20, 2025, will run for five days, ending on Friday, October 24, 2025.
The Water Savvy Kids Program has been designed to target pupils from communities where waterway transportation is a regular part of daily life. A total of 50 pupils from five public schools in Badagry have been selected to participate in this year’s program, carefully chosen to reflect the needs of areas where waterways play a vital role in commuting.
By providing water safety training and swimming lessons, LASWA seeks to instill water confidence in young learners, particularly those who regularly use Lagos’ inland waterways. As the state continues to embrace water transport, it is essential that young commuters are not only familiar with the waterways environment but are also equipped to handle emergency situations.
The LASWA-led initiative is geared towards creating a safer, more confident generation of waterway users who are safety-conscious, self-reliant, and well-prepared for any challenges they may encounter on the water. Through this program, LASWA and its partners aim to make a positive impact on the lives of young Lagosians, empowering them with skills that will benefit them for years to come.
The Water Savvy Kids Program has become an annual event, with this edition marking the fifth consecutive year that LASWA has implemented the initiative. By sustaining this program, LASWA demonstrates its commitment to promoting water safety and empowering young Lagosians with essential skills.
Participants in the program will have the opportunity to learn from experienced instructors at the Dolphin Swim School, who will provide guidance on swimming techniques, water safety, and emergency response. The program’s comprehensive approach ensures that pupils receive a well-rounded education in water safety, preparing them for a lifetime of safe and confident waterway use.
The impact of the Water Savvy Kids Program extends beyond the participating schools, as it contributes to a broader culture of water safety in Lagos. By engaging with young residents and promoting water confidence, LASWA is taking proactive steps towards creating a safer and more informed community of waterway users.
