Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu today at the Badore Ajah Jetty launched 15 Forty seater boats to firm-up the State’s Water Transportation Services in line with its THEMES+ agenda on Transportation and traffic management.
The Governor at the launching ceremony emphasised that the acquisition of the boats is a significant achievement in the journey to transform transportation in Lagos State, saying, “Today, we unveiled 15 newly acquired passenger ferries to expand the Lagos water transport system further, a key component of our T.H.E.M.E.S+ agenda, representing Transportation and Traffic Management.”
He stressed that the entire Lagos landmass constitutes about 22% of waterways, while 15 out of the 20 local governments in Lagos are accessible through the waterways, providing a reliable and efficient transport alternative for citizens to traverse, ensuring that movement across Lagos is not only quicker but more enjoyable.
Sanwo-Olu said his administration made substantial investments in making commuting on Lagos inland waterways a viable alternative, saying, “by doing so, we have saved countless person-hours otherwise lost in traffic congestion and optimized our vast public investment in water transportation.
“Aside from the construction of the new 15 jetties and terminals, We have established a first-of-its-kind Waterways Monitoring and Data Management Center (the LASWA Control Room). We acquired two additional patrol boats to enhance LASWA operations; we established a Search and Rescue unit and floating clinic for waterways emergencies, among other landmark initiatives on the Lagos Waterways.
“The 40 – passenger capacity ferries which would run only on a cowry cards payment system, is a testament to our dedication to creating an integrated, multi-modal transportation system that would make the daily commute smoother and seamless. With the associated environmental impact, this ferry project is to reaffirm our dedication to improving the quality of life of all Lagos residents.” He said.
He pointed out that in line with the State’s policy to harness the potentials of indigenous talents and boost the local economy, the new ferries were built to classification right here in Lagos by an indigenous company, Carverton Marine, under the supervision of Bureau Veritas, adding that their efforts towards safety and quality standards are commendable.
He said, “Let me say this to the people of Lagos: These ferries are yours; they are built for you, by you, and with your taxes. They promise better days ahead. As we launch these ferries into our waterways, let us do so with a sense of collective pride and purpose; let us continue to strive for excellence in all our endeavors. Let these ferries remind us what we can achieve together with a common goal.”
Earlier in his address, Mr. Emmanuel Oluwadamilola, the General Manager of Lagos Waterways Authority LASWA, welcomed the guests to the launch of a new fleet of ferries manufactured in Lagos State, describing it as a significant step in the improvement of inland waterways that will make their journeys safer, faster, and more comfortable.
He said, “I want to thank His Excellency, the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for his unwavering support and innovative leadership in improving our transportation infrastructure. The unveiling of Nigerian-made modern ferries is a testament to the dedicated efforts of the Lagos State Government in developing water transport in Lagos State.
“Lagos has always being a trailblazer in governance and standards setting, and LASWA has been aligned with this approach in setting the standards for inland waterways’ infrastructure and services across the nation.
“Our commitment to sustainable development has garnered international recognition and support, with partnerships with esteemed foreign entities such as the Future Cities Nigeria Project of the UK Government, the UK NIAF, and the ongoing Waterways Investment and Development of the Environment (WIDE-LAG, OMI-EKO Project) jointly sponsored by the European Union, European Investment Bank, French Development Agency, and the Lagos State Government.” He added.
Damilola averred that through safety awareness strategies, LASWA has significantly increased ridership figures and reduced waterway accidents, saying, “we have also facilitated multi-modal transport connections and integration at several jetties by introducing the Cowry Cards payment solution, Last-Mile Transfer Buses, and Park-and-Ride facilities. With a state-of-the-art Waterways Monitoring and Data Management Center, LASWA is committed to providing reliable services.”
