Corporate Spotlights
Captain Afotan Bows Out After 28 Years of Exemplary Service at LASWA
Captain Claudius Adeleke Afotan, a veteran boat captain fondly known as “Baba Ilaje,” has officially retired from the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) after 28 years of dedicated and incident-free service.
Celebrated for his professionalism, discipline, and unblemished safety record, Captain Afotan piloted various government patrol boats for over 500 hours without a single mishap or damage across Lagos waterways. His career has been widely hailed as a model for maritime safety and excellence.
At a brief retirement ceremony held on July 14, 2025, at the LASWA office, the General Manager of the agency, Mr. Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, paid glowing tribute to the veteran captain, describing him as a rare embodiment of commitment and caution on the waterways.
“For 28 years, Captain Afotan moved high-ranking government officials, Federal Ministers, State Commissioners, celebrities like Burna Boy and Wizkid, LASWA staff and Marine Guards safely during events, enforcement duties, and monitoring activities,” Emmanuel said. “He is the kind of hero our waterways need and will remember.”
Colleagues praised Afotan’s calm demeanor, deep knowledge of the waterways, and consistent prioritization of safety. His retirement, they noted, marks the end of an era and sets a high benchmark for future boat captains operating within Lagos’ growing water transport system.