Lagos Set to Introduce Electric Boats on Waterways, Partners Global Safety Bodies

The Lagos State Government has announced plans to introduce electric boats to its inland waterways as part of a broader effort to modernise water transportation under the Omi-Eko project.

The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) disclosed this development on Monday during a facility tour involving delegates from the Maritime Organisation of West and Central Africa (MOWCA) and Interferry.

Speaking at the event, LASWA General Manager Damilola Emmanuel said the electric boats would not replace the existing petrol-powered ferries but would operate alongside them, maintaining inclusivity for current operators. He assured boat owners and operators that the move aims to diversify and modernise transport, not to displace livelihoods.

“Under the Omi-Eko project, in a few years, we will be bringing in electric boats. It’s a project that seeks to revolutionise water transportation in Lagos with the introduction of electric ferries, upgrading of existing jetties and terminals, dredging of inland waterways, and capacity building for LASWA,” Emmanuel said.

He reiterated that LASWA’s focus remains on safety and sustainability. “Ferry safety is very important to inland waterways operations,” he said, adding that the authority was working to improve safety through partnerships and knowledge exchange with international organisations.

LASWA also revealed its intention to become a member of both MOWCA and Interferry Association as part of its drive to align with international best practices in ferry operations. Emmanuel emphasised the importance of working with global safety partners to enhance local practices.

“Interferry is an international safety body that promotes ferry safety from Europe to America, to Asia and now to Africa. They have not been to West Africa before now. This is their first time, and they plan to host a ferry safety conference here,” he said.

Chief Executive Officer of Interferry, Mike Corrigan, who led a team of 12 safety experts to Lagos, expressed optimism about the collaboration. According to him, the team brought expertise in navigation, vessel operations, life-saving techniques, and safety protocols to support LASWA’s safety initiatives.

“We want to be able to tell LASWA what we’ve learned globally and offer our guidance and assistance. LASWA is now a member of Interferry, a worldwide ferry trade association representing the global ferry industry with nearly 300 members,” Corrigan said.

He explained that Lagos is currently the only African city in Interferry’s partnership portfolio, but noted the organisation’s growing interest in expanding its work across Africa. “This is our third conference. We hope to come back and offer our services to any African city interested in improving ferry safety,” he added.

The initiative marks a significant step in the state’s transition toward sustainable transport and reaffirms Lagos’ ambition to lead waterway innovation in West Africa, while deepening local capacity through global cooperation.