Boat passengers query €410m Omi Eko Project, warning that high-capacity boats could delay operations and reduce efficiency on Lagos waterways

Boat passengers query €410m Omi Eko Project, expressing concern that the large passenger capacity of the proposed boats could lead to operational delays on Lagos waterways.

Also read: Sanwo-Olu unveils Omi Eko Project to transform Lagos waterways

Under the banner of the United Waterways Passengers Association (UWPA), the stakeholders argued that with capacities exceeding 30 passengers, operators might be forced to wait longer before departure to achieve full loads, thereby discouraging early commuters.

The Lagos State Government, in collaboration with foreign partners, unveiled the €410m Omi Eko Project in October, with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu describing it as a “future-oriented blueprint for sustainable mobility.”

The project aims to revolutionise the city’s transport system by promoting clean energy, building 20 new jetties, dredging 15 routes, and deploying 70 hybrid-electric ferries to ease road congestion.

However, the Chairman of UWPA, Gbenga Oluwadiya, while commending the initiative, faulted the design process for excluding passenger input.

He warned that introducing boats with over 30-seat capacity would be impractical for Lagos waterways.

“Any boat that can carry more than 30 passengers at a time will be a failure on Lagos waters because it will take too long to load,” Oluwadiya said.

“People rushing to work can’t wait for a 70-passenger boat to fill up before departure.”

He noted that commuters were accustomed to smaller, faster boats, stressing that convenience and speed should guide water transport design.

Similarly, President of the Barge Operators Association of Nigeria, Olubunmi Olumekan, called for fixed departure schedules to prevent long waits.

“Whether the boat is full or not, there should be set departure times. That’s how to build confidence and consistency,” he advised.

Olumekan also urged the government to raise public awareness about the safety and cost-effectiveness of water transport to attract more users.

Meanwhile, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Blue Economy, Damilola Emmanuel, confirmed that the project—Europe’s largest inland waterways investment—will span six years, with boats arriving in batches from 2027.

Also read: Omi Eko Project: the future mobility of Lagos city centre

Observers say the Omi Eko Project remains a bold step toward sustainable mobility in Lagos, though its success will depend on balancing efficiency, passenger experience, and environmental goals.