The Agence Française de Développement (AFD) has said that the newly introduced ‘Omi Eko’ project will significantly ease traffic in Lagos by promoting sustainable water transport.
Gatekeepers News reports that the initiative, unveiled on Friday by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, seeks to modernise water transportation across the state and reduce dependence on road travel. Omi Eko will provide an eco-friendly alternative to the city’s overburdened road networks.
During a community engagement visit on Saturday, Sandra Kassab, AFD’s Director for Africa, explained that the project, developed in partnership with the Lagos State Government, aims to enhance mobility through the introduction of electric ferries and upgraded jetties.
Kassab, who toured beneficiary communities with officials from the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) and the state government, said the visit was meant to engage residents and address their concerns about the project.
She said, “Yesterday, we launched an important project with His Excellency, the Governor of Lagos State, and LASWA. The Omi Eko project will offer new transport solutions along Lagos’s waterways. Today, we are visiting the communities that will benefit directly from this initiative and explaining what the project entails.”
The project is being executed by LASWA with financial and technical backing from European partners — including a €130 million loan from AFD, €170 million from the European Investment Bank (EIB), and a €60 million grant from the European Union (EU).
At the launch event, Jean-Noël Barrot, France’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, highlighted that the partnership reflects Lagos’s leadership in sustainable mobility in Africa. Similarly, EU Ambassador Gautier Mignot praised Lagos for setting a model for implementing Global Gateway projects on the continent.
Under the plan, 78 electric ferries will be deployed, supported by digital ticketing systems, smart terminals, and enhanced safety features.
After the visit, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, Lagos Commissioner for Transportation, assured residents that the project will not displace local workers. Instead, he said, community members will be trained to operate and maintain the new assets.
He said, “The beneficiary communities will be fully involved in the project because, without them, it cannot succeed.”
“Efficient transportation creates business opportunities and prosperity. No one will lose their jobs — we’re only modernizing the system.”
Osiyemi added that the project aligns with Nigeria’s clean energy goals while boosting economic activities and improving connectivity across the state.
