2024: A Year of Progress for Lagos Water Transport
The year 2024 marked significant advancements in Lagos State’s water transportation sector, highlighted by the introduction of standardized, locally-built ferries known as Omnibus boats. This initiative not only elevated operational standards but also spurred the informal sector towards formalization by offering access to these modern vessels through a rent-to-operate scheme. While the initial rollout involved 15 petrol-powered Omnibus boats, with 10 operators benefiting, future plans include exploring hybrid and electric propulsion systems for the remaining 10 vessels to address fuel cost challenges and promote environmental sustainability. Alongside ferry development, the state government has renovated 10 jetties, with five more nearing completion, further enhancing the infrastructure supporting water transport.
Omi-Eko: Transforming Water Transport in Lagos
The Omi-Eko Project, a £410 million initiative backed by the Lagos State Government, the French Development Agency (AFD), the European Investment Bank (EIB), and the European Union (EU), promises a comprehensive overhaul of the state’s waterways. This ambitious project encompasses procuring 70 electric ferries, constructing and upgrading 25 jetties and terminals, dredging 140 kilometers of waterways, and establishing a fund to support informal boat operators in upgrading their vessels. The project’s funding structure comprises loans from AFD and EIB, a substantial EU grant, counterpart funding from Lagos State, and anticipated private sector equity. This collaborative funding model underscores the project’s significance and its potential to revolutionize water transport in Lagos. The project is poised to launch following the finalization of a guarantee agreement with the Federal Government, anticipated in the second quarter of 2025.
Interagency Collaboration and Waterways Safety
The relationship between the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) and the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has been constructive, exemplified by NIWA’s support for the Omi-Eko Project and its engagement with littoral states to enhance water transportation. This collaborative approach is crucial for addressing the complex challenges and resource requirements of managing extensive waterways. LASWA’s commitment to safety is evident in its deployment of 103 water guards across various jetties, continuous boat inspections, and active patrol boat monitoring. These measures have positioned Lagos as a national leader in water transport safety, with other states seeking to emulate its best practices.
Addressing Existing Challenges and Future Outlook
Despite the progress, funding remains a persistent challenge, underscoring the need for continued investment to fully realize the potential of water transportation in Lagos. The transformation from an informal to a formal sector requires significant resources for boat acquisition and infrastructure development. Looking ahead to 2025, LASWA anticipates the launch of the Omi-Eko Project, the arrival of the remaining 10 Omnibus boats, and the completion of the third phase of its command and control center. This phase will introduce real-time boat tracking and inter-boat communication, further enhancing safety and emergency response capabilities.
Liverpool Jetty: A Focus on Safety and Modernization
Liverpool Jetty, currently facing challenges related to dilapidated infrastructure and inconsistent adherence to safety protocols, is earmarked for remodeling and boat upgrades. LASWA is actively enforcing life jacket regulations and providing life jackets to operators, emphasizing the importance of passenger safety. The modernization of Liverpool Jetty, coupled with improved boat standards, will contribute significantly to enhancing the overall safety and efficiency of water transport in this area.
Promoting Water Safety Awareness and Environmental Responsibility
LASWA’s initiative to train primary school students in swimming serves a dual purpose: fostering water confidence and promoting environmental stewardship. By introducing children to swimming at a young age, LASWA aims to build a stronger swimming culture and reduce water-related accidents. Furthermore, the program seeks to raise awareness about water pollution and encourage responsible waste disposal practices to protect the waterways. This multifaceted approach underscores LASWA’s commitment to both public safety and environmental sustainability.
