The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) orchestrated a pivotal meeting to explore the feasibility of transitioning to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as a cleaner and more sustainable fuel source for the state’s inland water transport sector. This strategic engagement brought together key stakeholders, including the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas, RIL Hydro Kraft Limited (promoters of CNG for marine applications), boat operators, and other relevant parties. The meeting, held at LASWA’s headquarters, underscored the agency’s commitment to fostering a greener, safer, and more efficient water transport system. It served as a platform to align national clean energy objectives with the operational realities of local boat operators, paving the way for collaborative efforts to drive a successful energy transition within the maritime sector.
LASWA’s General Manager, Mr. Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, emphasized the strategic importance of incorporating CNG-powered boats and electric ferries into Lagos’s long-term mobility plans. He highlighted the potential of CNG to significantly reduce carbon emissions, enhance passenger safety, and lower operational costs for boat operators. The transition to cleaner energy sources is viewed as a cornerstone of LASWA’s vision for a modern and sustainable water transport system, integral to the future of mobility in Lagos. This initiative aligns with global efforts to mitigate climate change and promote environmentally friendly transportation solutions.
The Presidential Initiative on CNG, represented by its Programme Coordinator/Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Michael Oluwagbemi, provided a comprehensive overview of the Federal Government’s roadmap for accelerating CNG adoption across various transport sectors, including maritime. Sharing success stories from the road transport CNG adoption program, Mr. Oluwagbemi assured stakeholders of robust technical support and enabling policies to facilitate the seamless integration of CNG within the marine sector. This commitment from the federal level reinforces the national drive towards cleaner energy and provides a supportive framework for the initiative’s success in Lagos.
RIL Hydro Kraft Limited, a key player in CNG technology for marine applications, presented the technical aspects of CNG conversion, including infrastructure requirements, safety protocols, and the long-term economic advantages of CNG usage in marine transport. Mr. Layi Solesi, the company’s Chief Executive Officer, showcased successful implementations in other coastal cities, demonstrating the viability and practicality of CNG-powered marine vessels. This presentation aimed to address technical concerns and build confidence among stakeholders regarding the feasibility and benefits of the proposed transition. RIL Hydro Kraft’s expertise and experience are crucial for providing the necessary technical support and guidance for a smooth transition.
Boat operators, integral to the successful implementation of the CNG initiative, actively participated in the meeting, raising critical questions and voicing concerns about affordability, safety, engine compatibility, refueling infrastructure, and maintenance. These practical concerns reflect the on-the-ground challenges faced by operators and underscore the importance of a collaborative approach to address these issues effectively. The open dialogue facilitated by the meeting provided a valuable opportunity to gather feedback and address potential obstacles proactively.
The collaborative nature of the meeting allowed for a productive exchange between stakeholders. The CNG proponents addressed the operators’ concerns, assuring them of a phased and inclusive implementation strategy. This strategy will be supported by comprehensive capacity-building programs and continuous stakeholder engagement throughout the transition process. This commitment to collaboration and support aims to build trust and ensure a smooth and successful transition to CNG-powered marine transport in Lagos. The meeting marked a significant step towards realizing a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable future for the Lagos waterways.
