Lagos Begins Key Consultancy Phase for Omi Eko Water Transport Project
Kathy Kyari
The Lagos State Government has commenced the Project Management, Operations and Design (PMOD) Consultancy for the Omi Eko Project, marking a significant step towards the delivery of what it describes as one of Africa's most ambitious inland water transport initiatives.
The consultancy, which officially kicked off at a meeting in Lagos, is expected to provide the technical leadership, operational planning and project management expertise needed to drive the successful implementation of the flagship water transport project.
Speaking at the kick-off meeting, the Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, described the commencement of the consultancy as a major milestone in the state's drive to establish a modern, efficient and environmentally sustainable water transportation system.
"The Omi Eko Project represents one of the most ambitious investments in inland waterways transportation in Africa. Beyond modern infrastructure and electric ferry technology, the project is designed to improve connectivity, reduce travel time, enhance passenger safety, stimulate economic activities and contribute meaningfully to environmental sustainability through cleaner transport solutions," Osiyemi said.
He noted that the PMOD consultancy goes beyond project management and design, explaining that it will coordinate stakeholders, provide operational guidance and support implementation to ensure the project's successful delivery.
According to the commissioner, the success of the Omi Eko Project will depend on strong collaboration among the Lagos State Government, development partners, consultants, contractors and host communities.
Osiyemi also expressed the appreciation of the Lagos State Government, under the leadership of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, to the French Development Agency (AFD), the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the European Union (EU) for their continued support for the state's vision of sustainable urban mobility.
He further commended the Omi Eko Project Team, the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) and other stakeholders whose efforts have advanced the project to its current phase.
Speaking on behalf of the consultancy, the Head of Delegation and Director of the International Unit at Planet SA, Mr. Dimitris Galanis, reaffirmed the firm's commitment to delivering the assignment in line with international best practices.
"We are honoured to partner with the Lagos State Government and its development partners on this transformational project. Our team is committed to providing world-class project management, operational planning and technical expertise to ensure the successful implementation of the Omi Eko Project. We look forward to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to deliver a safe, efficient and sustainable water transport system that will benefit millions of Lagos residents," Galanis said.
The Omi Eko Project is the Lagos State Government's flagship initiative to transform water transportation through the development of modern infrastructure, deployment of electric ferry services and improved operational systems, while promoting environmental sustainability and economic growth across the state.
Osiyemi expressed confidence that the expertise of the PMOD consultancy team, alongside the commitment of all stakeholders, would ensure the successful delivery of the project.
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