Under the leadership of General Manager Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) has made significant strides in promoting gender equality within the agency, fostering a more inclusive workforce in the Lagos water transport sector.

Before Emmanuel assumed office, LASWA had only four female staff members. That number has now risen to 22, with many of them occupying managerial positions. This deliberate effort to encourage diversity and inclusion has not only expanded opportunities for women but also strengthened the agency’s operational capacity.

A notable milestone in LASWA’s gender-focused reforms is the integration of young women into the LASWA Marine Guards Corps, a unit that was previously male-dominated. By breaking traditional barriers and placing women in roles essential to maritime safety, the agency has reaffirmed its commitment to providing equal opportunities in all aspects of its operations.

Beyond recruitment, LASWA has implemented policies to ensure a safe and respectful workplace. In February 2025, the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), in collaboration with LASWA, organized an enlightenment session for staff on preventing domestic and sexual abuse in the workplace. The initiative aimed to empower employees to report any form of harassment and uphold workplace dignity.

These efforts align with broader global and national movements advocating for gender balance and inclusivity across various industries. By prioritizing gender equality, LASWA is not only setting a benchmark for other agencies in Lagos but also reinforcing the role of women in the maritime sector.

Oluwadamilola Emmanuel’s leadership has been instrumental in reshaping the agency’s workforce dynamics, proving that fostering diversity leads to improved service delivery and organizational growth. His approach positions LASWA as a model for gender-inclusive policies, setting a precedent for other institutions to follow.