Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu inaugurated 15 new ferries yesterday to enhance water transportation in the state, marking his fifth year in office.
Launching the ferries at the Badore Jetty in Ajah, Sanwo-Olu described them as a commitment to the government’s transportation and traffic management agenda, aimed at deepening intermodal transportation and boosting the economy.
The 40-seater boats, named Omibus, were developed through a partnership between the state government, the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), and Caverton Marine, a subsidiary of Caverton Aviation. Except for the outboard engines, the ferries were locally produced.
These new additions bring the fleet to a total of 37 boats.
Sanwo-Olu stated, “This anniversary couldn’t have been better celebrated as it symbolises our commitment to a comprehensive integrated urban mass transportation. Today is the turn of marine/water transportation, and we are handing over 15 of the 25 ferries which Caverton Marine was commissioned to build, to operators. The remaining 10 would be injected in the second phase.”
He highlighted that reliable water transportation would help decongest roads and improve productivity by significantly reducing travel time.
For instance, the boat ride from Falomo to Badore takes 25 to 30 minutes, and from Badore to Ibeshe in Ikorodu takes 15 minutes, compared to one or two hours by road.
The governor emphasized the importance of strict compliance with water transport regulations to ensure safety on the waterways.
Commissioner for Transportation Oluwaseun Osiyemi praised Sanwo-Olu for prioritizing the development of inland waterways, noting that the launch of the Omibus ferries is a testament to his commitment to sustainable development and enhancing citizens’ welfare.
LASWA’s General Manager Emmanuel Damilola added that the unveiling of the locally-made modern ferries demonstrates the government’s dedication to water transport development.
“The ferries are equipped with revolutionary technology to ensure commuters’ safety, comfort, and convenience. They represent our commitment to sustainability, resilience and innovation, featuring co-friendly designs that minimize environmental impact” he added.
