Manny Ita –
The Lagos State Government has announced the imminent deployment of the Eko Water Taxi scheme, specifically targeting the Lekki-Epe corridor to alleviate persistent road congestion and ease the commute for residents and businesses.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Lagos State Ferry Services (LAGFERRY), is part of a broader strategic shift toward the “Blue Economy.” The goal is to transform the state’s vast waterways into a primary mode of transportation rather than just an alternative. By shifting a significant volume of daily commuters from roads to water, the government aims to reduce the pressure on major highways, which currently costs the state’s economy billions in lost productivity due to traffic delays.
Key Project Details
- Target Area: Initial deployment will focus on the Lekki-Epe axis, a region notorious for heavy traffic.
- Environmental Impact: The project aligns with the state’s goal of decarbonization, utilizing modern vessels designed to reduce carbon emissions and noise pollution.
- Integrated Transport: The water taxi system is designed to plug into the state’s existing multi-modal transport policy, linking seamlessly with road and rail networks.
- Strategic Growth: This rollout falls under the Omi Eko project, a €410 million investment aimed at modernizing 25 ferry terminals and dredging 15 key ferry routes across the city.
Officials noted that the Eko Water Taxi is expected to significantly reduce travel times—in some cases by up to two hours for cross-city trips—while providing a safer, more reliable daily lifestyle choice for Lagosians. The deployment is expected to begin within the next few days.
