- Lagos State and AFD reaffirmed commitment to the €410 million Omi Eko project to modernise and green Lagos’ waterways.
- The project will build 25 jetties, deploy 75 hybrid ferries, create jobs, and cut emissions.
The Lagos State Government and Agence Française de Développement (AFD) reaffirmed on Thursday, October 23, their commitment to the €410 million Omi Eko project, which aims to transform Lagos’ inland waterways into a world-class and sustainable transport network.
During a visit to community leaders in Oriade LCDA, Transportation Commissioner Oluwaseun Osiyemi said the project would modernise water transport, create jobs, and promote clean energy. He assured residents that the initiative would boost local businesses rather than displace them.
AFD Africa Department Director Sandra Kassab said AFD would provide a €130 million loan to the Federal Government, which would be on-lender to Lagos State. The European Investment Bank will contribute €170 million, and the European Union will add a €60 million grant for electric charging infrastructure.
The project will develop 15 ferry routes spanning 140 kilometres, deploy 75 hybrid-electric ferries, and build 25 terminals and jetties. It also aims to cut carbon emissions by 41,000 tonnes annually, serve 100,000 daily passengers, and save commuters up to three hours daily.
Furthermore, Community leader Karim Idowu thanked the government and partners for involving local communities and urged them to ensure mutual benefits.
A key part of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES+ Agenda, the Omi Eko project seeks to raise water transport’s share of daily mobility from one to five per cent and position Lagos as a model for sustainable transport in West Africa.