- Lagos Unveils Five Year Plan to Transform Water Transport with Electric Ferries
- Set to Deploy Electric Ferries, Dredge 140km of Waterways
- The government is developing transport hubs in key locations such as Mile 2 and Marina, where water, rail and bus systems will connect seamlessly
The Lagos State Government has unveiled an ambitious five year plan to transform water transportation, with a focus on deploying electric ferries, expanding inland waterways and integrating water travel with road and rail systems.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the Special Adviser to the Governor on Marine and Blue Economy, Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, disclosed this while hosting members of the Shipping Correspondent Association of Nigeria in Lagos.
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Emmanuel, who also oversees the Lagos State Waterways Authority, said the initiative includes dredging about 140 kilometres of inland waterways, upgrading ferry terminals and strengthening operational capacity across the sector.
He explained that the plan is aimed at providing residents with reliable alternatives to road transport and easing traffic congestion.
“The goal is to build an efficient, interconnected system linking the eastern, western and central parts of Lagos,” he said.
According to him, the government will also invest in capacity building across the sector, including training for boat operators, captains, deckhands and regulatory agencies, while ensuring that informal operators are not left out.
A major component of the programme is the transition to cleaner energy. Emmanuel revealed that pilot schemes for electric ferries have already shown promising results, while steps are being taken to convert conventional engines to Compressed Natural Gas as an alternative.
On pricing, he acknowledged that water transport currently costs more than road travel due to higher operational expenses, but noted that it offers shorter travel time and relief from traffic.
To improve connectivity, the government is developing transport hubs in key locations such as Mile 2 and Marina, where water, rail and bus systems will connect seamlessly.
He added that safety on Lagos waterways has improved significantly in recent times, with fewer accidents recorded due to better infrastructure, stricter regulations and continuous engagement with operators.
Monthly passenger traffic, he said, is currently estimated between 1.5 million and 2 million users.
On environmental sustainability, Emmanuel highlighted efforts to address marine pollution, especially plastic waste, through partnerships with environmental groups. He also noted ongoing initiatives to manage water hyacinth by converting it into useful products such as craft materials and agricultural inputs.
The adviser reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working with stakeholders to ensure the long term success of the sector, noting that the initiative aligns with efforts to unlock the full potential of Lagos blue economy.
In his remarks, SCAN President, Moses Ebosele, urged stronger collaboration between the waterways authority and the media to boost public awareness and encourage wider adoption, particularly in rural communities.
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