Transforming  Water Transportation in 1,000 Days of LAGFERRY’s Operations 

Funmi Ogundare writes that when the commercial operations of Lagos Ferry Services was inaugurated by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu at Badore Terminal, Ajah Eti-Osa in February 10, 2020, it has been an eventful journey of commuting Lagosians and businesses on the inland waterways in the over 1,000 days of the administration 

Despite months of lockdown occasioned by the global outbreak of Corona virus and the destructive #EndSars protest, the Lagos state-owned commercial ferry operator;  LAGFERRY was able to navigate the murky water, positively changed the narratives, berthed technology-driven safe and efficient water transportation model and practically translate the vision of Governor Sanwo-Olu .

The vision was to create a smart-city with functional multi-modal transportation system by optimising the socio-economic potentials of the natural water bodies in the state, as part of the robust initiatives contained in the Strategic Transportation Master Plan (STMP). 

Today, under the Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration, the relaunched LAGFERRY is running water transport in 24 routes from 16 terminals/jetties with 19 commercial boats, While government is rehabilitating and constructing 15 new terminals/jetties across the state.

Lagos State, the economic hub of Nigeria, faces numerous challenges in its transportation sector coupled with the ever-increasing population, congested roads, and inadequate public transport infrastructure.

This  have made it crucial to explore alternative modes of transportation, hence, the need for the state, under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to embark on an ambitious plan to revolutionise water transportation  which is a  key focus area. Now in its 1,000th day, with a vision of enhancing mobility, reducing traffic congestion, and boosting the blue economy, the Director, Public Affairs, LAGFERRY, Akeem Odusina, stated that the administration has so far,  implemented various initiatives and developments to transform water transportation in Lagos State. 

To achieve the vision, he stated that the governor  assembled a team of experienced and dedicated professionals and experts in maritime affairs, transport, and urban planning, to work together and comprehensively assess the existing infrastructure and bottlenecks,  as well as collaborated with various stakeholders to identify the key challenges and develop strategies for improvement.

” This process involved consultations with experts, public hearings, and a detailed feasibility study to execute the government’s plans effectively and efficiently thus paving the way for the blue economy.”

To facilitate seamless water transportation, he added that the state has invested in the establishment and renovation of terminals, landings, (floating) jetty(ies) along various waterways.

These terminals, he noted,  serve as key transit points, enabling commuters to board and disembark from boats and ferries comfortably and safely. 

“Furthermore, water transportation in Lagos state caters to a diverse range of passengers with different backgrounds. From daily commuters to tourists and business travelers, the water transport system offers a convenient and efficient mode of travel. The inclusive approach of the initiative has ensured that the needs and preferences of all passengers are taken into consideration,” he stated.

The primary objective of LAGFERRY,  the director stated, is to provide safe, efficient, and reliable water transportation services to the people, adding that .the vision is to be the go-to model and alpha solution provider in the business of water transportation which is in consonance with the Lagos State T.H.E.M.E.S PLUS agenda of the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration.

“It is aimed at enabling intermodal movement options and promotion of commerce and tourism, through the provision of safe efficient and technologically-driven ferry services manned by competent workforce to ensure environmental sustainability.

“Hence Mr. Governor’s vision for water transportation in Lagos State is to create an efficient, reliable, and sustainable mode of transportation that meets the needs of the growing population. 

“By completing strategic projects and leveraging technological innovations, the aim is to make water transportation an attractive option for commuters and optimise the blue economy potential of Lagos’ waterways,” Odusina stressed .

He explained that the state blessed with vast water bodies, including the atlantic ocean, lagoons, and creeks,  prioritised the development and utilisation of these waterways, leading to a significant increase in the availability of routes for water transportation. 

The director added that the governor’s passion for improving water transportation is evident in his commitment to creating an integrated multi-modal transport system that seamlessly connects road, rail, and water transportation. “By promoting water transportation as a viable alternative to road transport, he aims to ease traffic congestion and significantly reduce travel time for commuters. Under his leadership, the Lagos state government has demonstrated unwavering commitment to transforming water transportation by allocating substantial resources and implementing comprehensive policies and projects. This commitment is driven by the belief that efficient and sustainable water transportation is vital for the economic growth and development of the state.”

 Under the watch of the Managing Director, Lagos Ferry Services, Hon. Abdoulbaq Ladi Balogun, he noted that significant efforts have been made to improve and develop the water transportation sector in the state, through the recent construction and completion of a state-of-the-art modern floating pontoon at CMS-Marina to provide a convenient berthing point and movement for commuting residents and visitors alike. 

“it also constructed a well-equipped E-fleet surveillance systems with modern technology to monitor boat arrival and take-off on the waterways. The government has made strategic investments in ensuring the availability of amenities that are well-equipped and furnished, as well as state-of-the-art terminals, jetties, ticketing booths, waiting areas and security measures to improve the overall passenger experience. Furthermore, efforts have been made to improve last-mile connectivity by providing connectivity between waterways and other modes of transportation, such as buses and motorcycles.”

He emphasised on the relationship between the development of water transportation  and the optimization of the blue economy, saying that by harnessing the potential of the waterways, the state is creating employment opportunities and economic growth in industries such as fishing, aquaculture, tourism, and maritime activities.

According to him, “In addition to the infrastructure improvements and technological advancements, the government has also encouraged creative initiatives to promote water transportation. These include cultural events like Lagos water regatta, weddings, tourism campaigns, and educational programmes that highlight the historical and environmental significance of Lagos’ waterways. By fostering community engagement, these initiatives aim to increase public appreciation for water transportation.”

The transformation of water transportation in the state has not been without challenges, as Odusina listed them to include; inadequate infrastructure, encroachment on waterways, insufficient public awareness, insufficient boats/ferries and the need for increased security and safety measures.

” However, the government remains committed to addressing these challenges through sustained efforts and collaborations with relevant stakeholders such as LASWA, NIWA, among others.”