• Launches OMI-EKO Project To Boost Water Transport

Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Friday, said Lagos will lead Africa in building a sustainable, connected, and forward-thinking water transportation ecosystem.

Speaking at the launch of the Lagos State Waterways Authority Omo Eko project, Sanwo-Olu said for centuries, water has defined the rhythm of Lagos.
“From the bustling trade canoes of our ancestors to the ferries that glide across our lagoon today, our story has always been written on water. But history is not just what we inherit — it is also what we choose to create.

“Today, with the launch of the OMI-EKO Project, we choose to create history anew. This is not just a project unveiling; it is a bold statement — that Lagos will lead Africa in building a sustainable, connected, and forward-thinking water transportation ecosystem.”

Sanwo-Olu noted that every Lagosian knows the frustration of traffic, but fewer remember that Lagos began as a network of islands, knitted together by water.

“Long before bridges connected us, boats carried dreams, goods, and people across our lagoons. In recent years, we have been deliberate about returning to those roots — not nostalgically, but strategically. Under our THEMES+ Agenda, we identified water transportation as a critical lever for transforming urban mobility. And step by step, we’ve laid the foundations for today’s leap.

“We expanded our Omi-Bus fleet — modern, safe ferries designed for comfort and efficiency, easing pressure on our congested roads.
“We established West Africa’s first Waterways Monitoring and Data Centre, ensuring real-time visibility and enhanced safety across our waterways.

“We grew our waterways security personnel from 40 to over 100 trained officers, protecting commuters and strengthening public confidence.

“And just two weeks ago, Lagos captured the world’s imagination by hosting Africa’s first Electric Powerboat Race, the E1 Series — right here on these waters — demonstrating that clean innovation and Lagos ambition can powerfully coexist. Each of these milestones was not an isolated act; they were building blocks for what we unveil today.”

Sanwo-Olu stated that the OMI-EKO Project is a comprehensive, future-oriented blueprint for sustainable mobility in Lagos, merging technology, environmental stewardship, and smart design to create waterways that are not just navigated — but optimized.

“This is what cities around the world are doing to confront the twin challenges of urban population growth and climate change. But Lagos is not waiting to catch up. Lagos is setting the pace and the goal is to make movement seamless, the air cleaner and to transform waterways from barriers of separation into corridors of opportunity.”

Th governor stated that with OMI-EKO, the state government is lifting not only boats but lives, businesses, and communities.

“We are signaling that Lagos is ready to lead Africa’s urban transition — boldly, sustainably, and inclusively. And so, with pride and purpose, I invite you to witness the unveiling of a project that will reshape how we live, move, and connect.” He said that there is a component to establish sustainable inland waterways transport with the acquisition of over 75 electric powered vessels among others.

The Special Adviser on Blue Economy to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Mr Damilola Emmanuel, commended all the former Lagos governors for investing hugely in water transport aside praising Sanwo-Olu for taking the game higher with investment than will completely change water transportation in Lagos.