Monthly Waterways Passengers In Lagos Hits 2m

Monthly passenger traffic on Lagos waterways has climbed to about two million, as the state government intensifies efforts to expand water transportation and position it as a key component of its broader mobility and blue economy strategy.

The special adviser to the Lagos state governor on Marine and Blue Economy, Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, disclosed that the growing number of commuters reflects increasing public confidence in water transport, driven by improved safety measures, infrastructure upgrades, and sustained stakeholder engagement.

Emmanuel, who also serves as the general manager of the Lagos State Water Authority (LASWA), spoke while hosting executive members of the Shipping Correspondents Association of Nigeria (SCAN).

He noted that monthly ridership now ranges between 1.5 million and two million passengers, underscoring the rising importance of waterways as an alternative to the state’s congested road network.

He explained that the government is implementing a comprehensive five-year plan aimed at transforming water transport through the deployment of electric ferries, dredging of about 140 kilometres of inland waterways, and the development of modern ferry terminals.

According to him, the initiative is designed not only to ease traffic congestion but also to unlock economic opportunities within Lagos’ blue economy.

“The goal is to create an efficient and interconnected system linking different parts of the state. We are also investing in human capacity development across the value chain, including boat operators, captains, and other stakeholders, while ensuring inclusiveness for those in the informal sector,” he said.

Emmanuel further revealed that Lagos is aligning with the federal government’s clean energy transition by introducing electric ferries and exploring the conversion of conventional marine engines to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG).

While acknowledging concerns over transport fares, he maintained that water travel offers significant advantages in terms of reduced travel time and avoidance of traffic gridlock.

To improve connectivity, the state is developing transport interchanges in key locations such as Mile 2 and Marina, where water, rail, and bus services will be integrated for seamless commuting.

On safety, he said incidents on the waterways have reduced considerably due to proactive enforcement, better infrastructure, and continuous engagement with operators.

The government is also addressing environmental concerns, particularly plastic pollution and water hyacinth infestations, through partnerships with environmental agencies and non-governmental organisations, focusing on public awareness and sustainable solutions.

Emmanuel reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to sustained collaboration with stakeholders to ensure the long-term growth and sustainability of water transport in Lagos.