NYCN chairmen storm Lagos Waterways to explore Blue Economy potential

State chairmen of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory on Monday toured strategic locations along the Lagos waterways as part of their ongoing leadership retreat in the state, examining emerging opportunities in Nigeria’s growing blue economy sector.

The delegation, under the NYCN Forum of State Chairmen and led by its chairman, Adigun Ibrahim Olalekan, who also heads the Lagos State chapter, was received by the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Blue Economy and General Manager of the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), Mr. Oluwadamilola Emmanuel.

Adigun said the visit was designed to deepen the youth leaders’ understanding of Lagos’ expanding blue economy and expose them to the state’s investments in water transportation, safety systems and sustainable environmental practices.

He described Lagos as “a national model for how waterways can drive mobility, tourism and economic growth.”

Welcoming the delegation, Emmanuel praised the NYCN’s interest in Lagos’ transport reforms and reiterated LASWA’s commitment to building a “safe, modern and technology-driven” waterways industry.

He noted that 28 states and the FCT have significant inland waterway potential, adding that Lagos continues to set the pace in infrastructure, regulation and innovation.

Emmanuel highlighted the state’s real-time monitoring system for all ferries and showcased locally built vessels—including the Omnibus and Omni Ferry, which he said meet international safety and performance standards.

The tour took the youth leaders through Lagos’ scenic coastal corridors, ferry terminals and waterfront communities, offering firsthand insight into the state’s long-term maritime and environmental plans.

The delegation, which arrived in Lagos on Saturday, had earlier held strategic engagements with local government leaders, including the chairmen of Onigbongbo LCDA, Hon. Moyosore Adebanjo, Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye LCDA, Hon Seyi Jakande, Ikosi Isheri Mayoress Samiat Bada, as well as former chairman of Odi-Olowo Hon. Rasaq Ajala.

They also paid courtesy visits to traditional rulers: the Paramount Ruler of Isolo Kingdom, Oba Isa Abiodun Faronbi-Shekoni, and the Oniru of Iru Kingdom, Oba Wasiu Omogbolahan Lawal.