By SCM Staff Writer I Friday, October 17, 2025
LAGOS, Nigeria – EUROPEAN cash is powering a massive new ferry scheme in Lagos that officials say will end the city’s notorious traffic jams.
The OMI-EKO project will splash out on 70 hybrid electric ferries and a complete overhaul of its waterways, thanks to a deal sealed with French and EU partners commiting Euro 410 million to the project.
Nigerian officials are hailing the scheme as the final piece in Lagos’s transport puzzle, promising to “unlock the full potential” of the state’s huge network of inland waterways.
Lagos Transportation Commissioner Seun Osiyemi declared the project is “not just about ferry operations; it is about empowering communities, creating jobs, easing congestion, and reducing our carbon footprint.”
Congestion Crisis Over
The game-changing project will see 20 existing jetties upgraded with state-of-the-art terminals across 15 major water routes.
Mr. Damilola Emmanuel, Special Adviser to the Governor on Blue Economy, confirmed the ambitious scheme is “no longer a dream, but a reality.”
He added the new fleet of electric ferries would reduce grubby pollutant emissions and boost “clean mobility.”
In the first phase, workers will dredge and channelise 15 ferry routes for a safer and faster ride, with special funding even being made available for local boat operators.
The project has received the complete blessing of its European backers, who see “untapped opportunities” in the Lagos waterways.
French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noel Barrot, said the OMI-EKO project is the “best possible” example of what a partnership can achieve for the people.
It’s all part of the bilateral cooperation forged during Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent visit to French President Emmanuel Macron.
EU Ambassador Gautier Mignot stressed the cash injection is a historical milestone and will “enhance life quality” for millions.
He said the investment will boost 12 strategic waterways corridors, with four of them located in West Africa.
”We are proud to be part of this project which showcases all the aspects of global gateway development,” Mignot added.
