Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has unveiled the Omi-Eko Project, a landmark initiative aimed at revolutionizing water transportation in Africa’s most populous city. The project, according to the Governor, represents a major step toward building a cleaner, safer, and more efficient urban transport system while reducing pressure on Lagos’ overburdened roads.
Speaking at the official launch, Governor Sanwo-Olu described the project as a bold move to reposition water as a central part of the city’s mobility and economic strategy.
“Today, with the launch of the Omi-Eko Project, we take another decisive step toward transforming transportation in Lagos,” he said. “This initiative strengthens our commitment to building a cleaner, safer, and more efficient city where water becomes a true channel for mobility and opportunity.”
For decades, Lagos has been a city defined by its waterways, yet dependent on its congested road networks for most of its movement. The Omi-Eko Project, the Governor noted, seeks to change that narrative through sustained investment in modern and sustainable water transport infrastructure.
The initiative comprises two major components. The first focuses on developing inland waterways infrastructure — including the construction of 15 priority ferry routes, dredging and marking of 140 kilometers of channels, and the development of 25 ferry terminals and jetties equipped with electric charging stations, maintenance depots, and improved road connections to enhance multimodal access.
The second component emphasizes sustainability and technology-driven operations. It includes the introduction of over 75 electric-powered ferries, the deployment of intelligent transport systems for ticketing and passenger information, and comprehensive capacity building for the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) to strengthen operational efficiency and safety oversight.
Governor Sanwo-Olu said the overarching goal of the Omi-Eko Project is to give Lagosians more transport choices that are safe, affordable, and environmentally friendly, while easing road congestion and stimulating economic activity across waterfront communities.
He also expressed gratitude to the project’s international partners — the French Development Agency (AFD), the European Union (EU), and the European Investment Bank (EIB) — for their financial and technical support in bringing the vision to life.
“Our goal is to give Lagosians more options to move safely and efficiently while easing congestion and supporting economic growth,” the Governor added. “We thank our partners for their collaboration in making this vision a reality.”
The Omi-Eko Project forms part of the Sanwo-Olu administration’s Traffic Management and Transportation Pillar under the T.H.E.M.E.S+ Agenda, designed to promote sustainable mobility, environmental responsibility, and improved quality of life for Lagos residents.
