By Abbas Nazil
The Lagos State government is to commence construction in June 2025 on the ambitious €410 million ($464 million) Omi Eko water transport project, a major initiative aimed at tackling the city’s persistent traffic congestion by integrating inland waterways into the broader urban mobility framework.
This development, announced in a statement cited by Bloomberg, signals a strategic shift towards sustainable and efficient transport solutions in Nigeria’s commercial capital and most populous city.
Named after the Yoruba phrase for “Lagos water,” the Omi Eko project is designed to establish a reliable and eco-friendly ferry system that complements existing land-based transport options.
The initiative is part of Lagos State’s comprehensive plan to reduce road traffic gridlock and improve overall commuting experience for residents and visitors alike.
With a population exceeding 20 million, Lagos continues to face significant transportation challenges, and the Omi Eko project is expected to provide much-needed relief by offering an alternative mode of travel through the city’s vast network of waterways.
According to the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), which confirmed the project’s commencement earlier in the year, the Omi Eko initiative will be executed in phases, with full completion targeted for 2030.
The €410 million financing package comprises €360 million in support from international development partners, including the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), the European Union (EU), and the European Investment Bank (EIB).
Lagos State will contribute €40 million in counterpart funding, while an additional €10 million will be sourced from private sector partners.
The scope of the project is extensive. It includes dredging and ensuring safe navigation along 15 designated ferry routes across Lagos.
More than 78 electric-powered ferries will be deployed to operate along these routes, minimizing environmental impact by reducing both air and water pollution.
Furthermore, 25 ferry terminals will be constructed or upgraded at key waterfront locations.
These modern terminals will feature amenities such as electric charging stations, ample parking, clean restrooms, digital payment systems, comfortable waiting areas, and robust safety infrastructure.
To further improve efficiency and convenience for passengers, a smart ticketing system will be introduced, integrated with Lagos’s existing Cowry Card payment platform.
This will facilitate seamless connections between ferry services and other modes of transportation, enhancing last-mile connectivity and simplifying urban mobility.
In addition to alleviating traffic, the Omi Eko project is expected to boost local economic activity, particularly in waterfront communities.
By creating new employment opportunities and stimulating small businesses, the initiative also aims to support inclusive economic development.
The project’s commitment to environmental sustainability and economic empowerment makes it a significant milestone in Lagos’s urban development journey.