Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo Olu has declared that Lagos is set to lead Africa in the development of sustainable and efficient urban waterways through the newly launched Omi Eko Project.
The governor made this known on Thursday during the official unveiling of 78 electric ferries worth €410 million aimed at transforming water transportation across the state.
Speaking at the launch held at the Five Cowries Terminal in Falomo Sanwo Olu said the project marked a historic milestone in Lagos’ journey toward clean safe and connected mobility. According to him Lagos has always been defined by water and the time has come to turn that natural advantage into an engine for growth. “From the bustling trade canoes of our ancestors to the ferries that glide across our lagoon today our story has always been written on water. But history is not just what we inherit it is also what we choose to create,” he stated.
The governor explained that the Omi Eko Project represents a bold vision to make Lagos the continent’s leader in smart and eco friendly transportation. He described the initiative as a comprehensive plan that merges technology environmental protection and innovation to create waterways that are both functional and sustainable. “This is not just a project unveiling it is a blueprint that will redefine urban mobility in Africa. Lagos is not waiting to catch up Lagos is setting the pace,” Sanwo Olu added.
Sanwo Olu also emphasized that the project will ease road traffic reduce carbon emissions and open new economic opportunities for communities along the waterways. He said the government’s goal is to ensure cleaner air seamless movement and a better quality of life for residents. “Water is life it nourishes us and shapes our identity. With this project it will now carry us into the future,” he said.
Former Lagos State Governor and Minister of Works and Housing Babatunde Fashola who was among the dignitaries present commended Sanwo Olu for his commitment to modern transport development. He also urged the state to link water transport with rail and road systems to create a fully integrated network. Other key figures at the event included Lagos APC Chairman Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi and several foreign partners.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Blue Economy Damilola Emmanuel and Commissioner for Transportation Oluwaseun Osiyemi both described the Omi Eko Project as a major step in Lagos’ transition toward sustainable transportation. They noted that the 78 electric ferries combined with modern terminals and digital ticketing systems will drastically cut travel time and make water transport safer faster and more efficient for millions of Lagosians.
