Sanwo-Olu reaffirms commitment to sustainable water transportation in Lagos

By Adeola Ogunrinde –

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transforming Lagos waterways into vital corridors of economic opportunity and sustainable transportation.

Speaking on Friday at the official launch of the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) “Omi Eko Project,” Sanwo-Olu described the initiative as a historic step in reimagining the state’s transport and environmental landscape.

“For centuries, water has defined the rhythm of Lagos. From the bustling trade canoes of our ancestors to the ferries that glide across our lagoon today, our story has always been written on water. But history is not just what we inherit; it is also what we choose to create,” he said.

The governor described the Omi Eko Project as a “bold statement” of intent, representing Lagos’ vision to lead the continent in developing a sustainable, connected, and future-oriented water transportation system.

According to him, the project will ease traffic congestion, reduce carbon emissions, and open up new economic opportunities across waterfront communities in the state.

In his goodwill message, former Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, commended the resilience and commitment of Sanwo-Olu and his team, urging them to complement the project with connectivity links to the rail and road transport systems.

Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, said the initiative aims to significantly cut travel times, ease road congestion, and provide Lagosians with a reliable and environmentally friendly commuting alternative.

Earlier, Special Adviser to the Governor on Blue Economy, Mr. Damilola Emmanuel, explained that the Omi Eko Project would strengthen infrastructure across Lagos waterways and advance the state’s climate resilience goals through smart technology and eco-friendly innovation.