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By Lukman Olabiyi
Lagos State’s growing reputation as a model for modern water transportation has earned global acclaim, as former General Manager of the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, has been appointed to the Board of Directors of Interferry, the international association representing the global ferry industry.
Emmanuel’s appointment, which was ratified during Interferry’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Sorrento, Italy, marks a historic milestone; he becomes the first African to serve on the board.
Currently serving as Special Adviser on Blue Economy to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Emmanuel is expected to bring an African perspective to global deliberations on ferry safety, innovation, and environmental sustainability, areas where Lagos State has made significant strides under the THEMES+ development agenda of the Sanwo-Olu administration.
Interferry’s Chief Executive Officer, Mike Corrigan, praised the diversity of the newly constituted board, saying, “I am proud to say that these new directors enhance the Board’s representation of the global ferry industry as Interferry continues to expand its worldwide presence.”
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Alongside Emmanuel, five other new directors from the United Kingdom, the Philippines, Italy, Canada, and the United States were also appointed to serve four-year terms.
The AGM further confirmed Götz Becker of FRS as the new Chairman and Mrs Supapan Pichaironarongsongkram of Thailand as President of the association.
With over 280 member companies across 40 countries, Interferry holds consultative status at the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and plays a key role in shaping global ferry regulations, safety standards, and sustainability practices.
The next Interferry Annual Conference will be held in Bangkok in 2026, coinciding with the association’s 50th anniversary celebration.
