Lagos State has announced the launch of its ambitious €410 million ‘Omi Eko’ water transport project, aimed at transforming the city’s inland waterways into a world-class transportation network.
The project, set to run from 2025 until 2030, will be primarily financed through a partnership with the French Development Agency (AFD), the European Union (EU), and the European Investment Bank (EIB), contributing €360 million. The Lagos State Government will provide a counterpart fund of €40 million, with the private sector contributing an additional €10 million.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), is designed to tackle the city’s notorious traffic congestion by offering an eco-friendly and sustainable alternative for urban transportation. According to LASWA General Manager, Mr. Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, the ‘Omi Eko’ project will revolutionize Lagos’ transport system by integrating water travel with existing road and rail networks, creating a seamless multimodal system.
Key features of the project include the dredging and navigation of 15 ferry routes, the deployment of over 78 large-capacity electric ferries, and the construction and rehabilitation of 25 ferry terminals, each equipped with modern amenities like parking, waiting areas, and digital payment systems. The project emphasizes environmental sustainability, utilizing low-emission electric ferries to reduce water and environmental pollution.
The Omi Eko initiative also aims to stimulate local business growth, tourism, and community development along the waterfronts, providing opportunities for artisans, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders in the area. Safety will be a priority, with LASWA enforcing strict safety protocols and running public education campaigns to ensure safe transport for all passengers and boat operators.
Through the Omi Eko project, Lagos hopes to set a benchmark for sustainable urban development in Africa, positioning its waterways as vital spaces for commerce, innovation, and community engagement. With the project’s rollout, Lagos envisions a future where its water transport system is not just a transit solution but a key driver of the city’s growth and transformation.
