The governor of Lagos, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has officially launched the “Omi Eko” project, an initiative aimed at revolutionising water transportation and accelerating the state’s blue economy agenda.
Speaking on Friday during the unveiling of 78 electric ferries for the initiative, Sanwo-Olu said this marks a new phase in Lagos’ transport evolution and reflects his administration’s dedication to sustainable and modern mobility.
‘Omi Eko’, a Yoruba term loosely translated as ‘the water of Lagos’, represents a vision to deliver an efficient, affordable, and eco-friendly ferry network.
“Our story as Lagosians has always been written on water,” Sanwo-Olu said.
“But history is not just what we inherit; it is also what we choose to create. Today, we are launching not just a project but a vision to redefine urban movement.”
He explained that the project embodies innovation and resilience, integrating smart design, technology, and environmental responsibility to maximise the potential of the city’s waterways.
“Our goal is simple but profound — to make movement seamless, to make the air cleaner, and to transform our waterways into channels of prosperity,” he said.
“Water is life, water is connectivity, and water is the soul of Lagos. It nourishes us, shapes our identity, and carries us into the future.”
Sanwo-Olu noted that “Omi Eko” aligns with his THEMES Plus agenda, which seeks to harmonise rail, road, and water transport systems into an effective multimodal network. He added that the state has expanded its ferry fleet, reinforced security on waterways, and launched Africa’s first Waterways Monitoring and Data Centre to boost safety and service coordination.
‘YOUNGER LEADERS ARE PROVING THEIR WORTH’
Former Lagos governor Babatunde Fashola praised Sanwo-Olu for advancing the long-term vision of an interconnected transport system covering roads, rail, and waterways.
Fashola said the success of the initiative proves that younger leaders, when given responsibility, can deliver impactful governance.
“What we are witnessing today is the continuation of a journey that started decades ago — a journey of service and mentorship,” Fashola said.
“Young people like Damilola Emmanuel (LASWA MD), who have been entrusted with public responsibility, have shown commitment and competence. I must commend the governor and his team for deepening the intermodal transport system of Lagos.”
He also acknowledged the collaboration between Lagos and the French Development Agency (AFD), saying it reflects a partnership built on trust and consistent delivery.
“For those who ask why we always engage French partners, it is because when they commit, they deliver — and this project is another testament to that partnership,” he added.
AFD, EU COMMIT FUNDS
The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) is implementing the project with technical and financial support from European partners — including a €130 million loan from the French Development Agency (AFD), a €170 million loan from the European Investment Bank (EIB), and a €60 million grant from the European Union (EU).
Jean-Noël Barrot, France’s minister for Europe and foreign affairs, said the partnership highlights Lagos’ leadership in adopting sustainable mobility innovation across Africa.
“Through Omi Eko, Nigeria, with the support of France and the EU, is leading the way in putting innovative and sustainable mobility at the service of people’s needs, at the heart of Lagos, Africa’s largest city,” Barrot said.
Gautier Mignot, EU ambassador to Nigeria, added that Lagos is setting a new standard for the rollout of global gateway projects on the continent.
“Nigeria and Lagos are spearheading the execution of Global Gateway projects, showing the level of ambition that can be achieved both in size and sustainability,” Mignot said.
“As the Lagos–Abidjan corridor remains a key area for Global Gateway intervention, we look forward to expanding sustainable connectivity in the ECOWAS region and beyond.”
The project includes the deployment of 78 high-capacity electric ferries, digital ticketing solutions, intelligent terminals, and upgraded safety infrastructure.