Lagos Launches Omi-Eko Project to Modernize Water Transport and Ease Traffic Congestion
Kathy Kyari
The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has launched the Omi-Eko Project, a major Lagos State initiative aimed at upgrading the city’s water transport system to provide safer, cleaner, and more efficient mobility for residents. Supported by the French Development Agency (AFD), the European Union (EU), and the European Investment Bank (EIB), the project is expected to reduce road congestion, promote sustainable transportation, and improve connectivity across Lagos.
At the official launch held on Friday, October 17, 2025, at the Five Cowries Terminal, Falomo, Governor Sanwo-Olu described the project as “a declaration of vision, of courage, and of leadership that dares to dream beyond the present.”
“This project is not merely about infrastructure; it is about transformation, the transformation of lives, of livelihoods, and of Lagos itself. It speaks to who we are as a people — bold in ambition, relentless in innovation, and united by a shared determination to build a Lagos that works for all,” the Governor said.
The Omi-Eko Project, implemented by the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), will establish 15 structured ferry routes covering 140 kilometers and linking 25 upgraded terminals across the city. It will also introduce 75 state-of-the-art electric ferries, each capable of carrying up to 440 passengers, a move that will significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and urban pollution.
According to the project outline, AFD is providing a €130 million loan, EIB a €170 million loan, and the EU a €60 million grant — combining financial and technical expertise under the European Union’s Global Gateway strategy.
Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized that the initiative aligns with his administration’s THEMES+ Agenda, and aims to increase water transport’s share of daily mobility from 1% to 5%, saving commuters up to two hours per day while easing pressure on Lagos roads.
“We are not just improving transportation; we are redefining mobility. We are not just managing water; we are mastering possibility,” he added.
The project’s modern ferry system will be fully integrated with the state’s transport network managed by LAMATA, ensuring seamless ticketing through the Cowry Card and easy connections between ferries, Metro, BRT, and last-mile buses.
Representing the French Government, Mr. Barrot, France’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, said:
“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.”
Mr. Mignot, the EU Ambassador to Nigeria, praised Lagos for spearheading the Global Gateway vision:
"Nigeria and Lagos are showing the way as to the level of ambition which can be achieved both in terms of size and sustainability. 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.”
Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Rodger Stuart, Regional Director of the European Investment Bank, said:
"The EIB is extremely pleased to support such an impactful project for the 23 million citizens of Lagos, by reinforcing mobility and connectivity while at the same time reducing the city’s air and water pollution. This innovative and ambitious project reflects a concrete demonstration of the EIB’s commitment to the Global Gateway strategy in West Africa.”
Sanwo-Olu also lauded the Lagos State Waterways Authority, development partners, and investors for their collaboration, describing the project as a “blueprint for sustainable urban mobility” and a “covenant with the people and the planet.”
“Together, we are charting a new course. Together, we sail toward a Lagos that is greener, safer, more connected, and more inclusive,” he declared before unveiling the project to rousing applause.
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