The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving safety and efficiency on the city’s waterways, as it advances plans to deploy 78 electric ferries under the ambitious Omi Eko Project. The government also announced the installation of modern concrete floating structures, known as pontoons, at jetties across the state to ensure safer boarding for passengers.
This development was disclosed in a statement on Tuesday by the Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Mr. Dayo Bush Alebiosu. According to him, the Omi Eko Project, which is scheduled for completion between 2024 and 2030, will see the introduction of 78 high-capacity electric ferries, dredging and channelisation of 15 key routes, expansion of 25 terminals, and integration of digital ticketing systems to ensure seamless commuter movement.
“This is more than infrastructure; it’s about transforming the way Lagosians move, work, and connect,” Alebiosu said. “We are building a safe, sustainable, and globally competitive water transport system that complements our roads and rail.”
The commissioner added that the first set of concrete floating pontoons, which serve as flexible docking platforms, are already being installed at jetties in Agboyi Ketu (Kosofe Local Government Area), Ijegun Egba (Amuwo Odofin LGA), and Bayeku/Ikorodu (Ikorodu LGA). Plans are underway to extend the installations to Ebute Ero (Lagos Island), Ijede (Ikorodu), Apa (Badagry), Mile 2 (Amuwo Odofin), Mowo (Ojo LGA), and other strategic locations across Lagos State.
“These pontoons are crafted from rigid concrete blocks, designed to float and withstand wave pressure while offering stability,” Alebiosu explained. “They remove the fear most passengers have when boarding boats due to shaking platforms. This innovation provides a flat, concrete surface that feels almost like boarding from solid ground.”
He noted that the modular design of the pontoons allows them to double as temporary bridges during seasonal flooding or erosion, further supporting the resilience of Lagos’ waterfront communities.
The commissioner emphasized that the pontoon upgrades form a key part of the €410 million Omi Eko Project, which was recently launched by the Lagos State Government to modernise the state’s water transport system. The project aims to reduce traffic congestion, improve commuter safety, cut greenhouse gas emissions through the use of electric vessels, and strengthen climate resilience against sea-level rise.
Funding for the project is being jointly provided by the French Development Agency, the European Investment Bank, and the European Union, highlighting international confidence in Lagos’ plans to modernise its waterways.
The Omi Eko Project represents a long-term vision for Lagos, a megacity where waterways have historically played a critical role in transport. With the introduction of electric ferries and modern pontoons, Lagos is seeking to make water transport a more attractive, safe, and environmentally friendly option for daily commuters.
Once completed, the 78 high-capacity electric ferries are expected to serve major routes connecting busy terminals, while the upgraded pontoons will offer commuters stable and accessible boarding points. The integration of digital ticketing will also streamline operations, reducing wait times and ensuring better crowd management at jetties.
Experts and transport stakeholders have welcomed the initiative, noting that Lagos’ waterways are underutilized and that modern infrastructure could significantly ease road traffic pressures. The government’s focus on safety, sustainability, and climate resilience positions Lagos as a potential model for water transport innovation in Nigeria and West Africa.
The Omi Eko Project is therefore seen as a transformative step toward a modern, efficient, and environmentally responsible urban transport system in Lagos State.
