The Lagos State Government has announced that it will officially break ground this June on the €410 million Omi Eko water transport project aimed at easing traffic congestion through the development of the state’s inland waterways.
EpeInsights gathered that the Omi Eko project, named after the Yoruba term for “Lagos water” is a major component of the state’s integrated urban transport strategy and is expected to significantly improve mobility in Nigeria’s commercial capital.
According to the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), the project will be implemented over a five-year period, with completion targeted for 2030.
The General Manager of LASWA, Mr. Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, stated that the funding comprises €360 million from international partners, including the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), the European Union (EU), and the European Investment Bank (EIB).
Lagos State will provide a counterpart funding of €40 million, while the remaining €10 million will come from the private sector.
The Omi Eko initiative will include the dredging and navigation of 15 ferry routes, the deployment of over 78 electric-powered ferries, and the construction or upgrading of 25 ferry terminals across Lagos.
Each terminal will feature charging stations, parking spaces, digital ticketing systems integrated with the Cowry Card, restrooms, waiting areas, and modern safety infrastructure.
The project is designed to support environmental sustainability by using low-emission ferries to reduce air and water pollution.
The project also aims to stimulate economic growth in waterfront communities and reduce pressure on Lagos roads by providing an efficient, climate-friendly alternative to road transportation.
The Lagos State Government initially secured the funding commitment for the project during the COP28 climate summit held in Dubai in December 2023.
The state government said the Omi Eko project will play a central role in transforming Lagos into a modern, connected, and sustainable megacity.
