The Lagos State Government has announced plans to introduce a Water Taxi service as part of a broader strategy to ease commuting and expand transport options across the state.
The initiative, which includes the deployment of 70 electric ferries, is a major step towards modernising Lagos’s transport infrastructure and promoting environmentally friendly alternatives.
According to the government, the new service, developed in partnership with the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) and private sector operators, is expected to commence operations in the third quarter of 2025.
Managing Director of Lagos Ferry Services (LAGFERRY), Mr Abdoulbaq Balogun, disclosed the plans during a media briefing in Ikoyi. He explained that the initiative aligns with the state’s THEMES Plus agenda, which prioritises sustainable transport, infrastructure development, and carbon emission reduction.
Mr Balogun noted that preparatory activities, including dredging and clearing of designated water routes, are currently underway to facilitate the launch.
Since its inception in February 2020, LAGFERRY has transported over three million passengers on Lagos waterways. Mr Balogun recalled that when Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu assumed office in 2019, the service operated just four boats, a number that has significantly increased through continued government investment.
Several new jetties and ferry terminals are either under construction or nearing completion, and are expected to be commissioned in the coming months to further strengthen the water transport system.
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The LAGFERRY MD added that the retrofitting of the current ferry fleet is in progress to meet modern safety and performance standards. Construction has also commenced on a cutting-edge drydock facility that will serve as a central maintenance hub.
“Retrofitting our vessels will improve their durability and ensure safer, more efficient journeys across the waterways. The drydock will also help reduce downtime and enhance operational sustainability,” he said.
Looking Ahead
Mr Ibrahim Famuyiwa, who represented the Managing Director of LASWA, revealed ongoing efforts to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the French Development Agency (AFD) for the deployment of 70 electric ferries.
He emphasised that this move is part of a comprehensive plan to promote sustainable urban mobility and integrate various transport modes across the state.
Mr Famuyiwa also noted that states such as Anambra, Kogi, and Delta have visited Lagos to study its water transport model due to the notable progress achieved in the sector.
