A new era of water transportation is coming to Lagos with the launch of the €410 million Omi Eko project, a bold initiative by the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) set to begin in 2025 and fully roll out by 2030.
Backed by international partners including the French Development Agency (AFD), the European Union (EU), and European Investment Bank (EIB)—alongside strong support from the Lagos State Government and private sector—Omi Eko is poised to revolutionize inland water travel across Lagos.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu describes the project as a “legacy initiative” aligned with the Lagos State Climate Action Plan (2020–2025). It will deliver a modern, eco-friendly alternative to road transport, reducing traffic congestion and emissions.
Key Highlights of the Omi Eko Project:
- 15 dredged and marked ferry routes across 140 km of Lagos Lagoon
- Over 78 electric-powered ferries for cleaner, quieter travel
- 25 ferry terminals and jetties to be built or upgraded, equipped with charging stations
- Smart ticketing system integrated with Cowry Card technology
- Maintenance and safety infrastructure to enhance reliability
- Targeted CO₂ emissions cut of 41,000 tons/year
Beyond transportation, Omi Eko aims to boost economic activity in coastal communities, improve quality of life, and unlock the full potential of Lagos’s waterways—covering over 22% of the state’s landmass.
“This project isn’t just about moving people faster—it’s about building a more sustainable, connected, and prosperous Lagos,” said Governor Sanwo-Olu.
