The Lagos State Government has announced plans to introduce electric-powered boats into the Lagos Ferry Services (LAGFERRY) fleet in 2026, a move aimed at reducing ferry fares and easing transportation costs for commuters.
Hon. Abdoulbaq Ladi-Balogun, Managing Director of LAGFERRY, disclosed this in a statement shared on the Lagos State Government’s official X account on Wednesday.
According to him, the initiative is part of the state’s broader strategy to provide affordable, sustainable, and environmentally friendly water transportation while addressing rising transport costs and traffic congestion in the city.
Balogun explained that electric-powered vessels have significantly lower operating and maintenance costs compared to conventional boats, creating room for fare reductions for passengers.
He described the move as both an environmentally responsible and economically necessary step for Lagos.
“The Lagos State Government plans to introduce electric-powered boats into the Lagos Ferry Services fleet within the year as part of its commitment to affordable, sustainable, and eco-friendly public transportation,” the statement said.
The LAGFERRY Managing Director noted that water transportation is steadily gaining popularity among Lagos residents.
Since February 4, 2020, LAGFERRY has transported over 4.4 million passengers. He described the growing adoption of ferry travel as the “Watermania Lifestyle,” where commuters park their vehicles at jetties and complete their journeys by boat.
During the 2025 Detty December festivities, Balogun revealed that ferry operations recorded a tenfold increase in trips, as residents and visitors relied heavily on waterways to access beach houses and coastal resorts.
The plan to introduce electric ferries aligns with Lagos State’s wider push towards electric-powered water transportation under the Omi Eko Project, a €410 million initiative launched in October 2025 to transform mobility across the Lagos Lagoon.
The project is being implemented by the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) with support from the European Union and private partners. Funding includes a €60 million EU grant, a €130 million loan from the French Development Agency (AFD), and a €170 million loan from the European Investment Bank (EIB).
When completed, the Omi Eko Project is expected to deploy 75 electric vessels across 15 ferry routes, supported by charging stations, modern terminals, intelligent ticketing, and vessel tracking systems. The initiative aims to carry up to 25 million passengers annually, reduce road congestion, and offer a safe, clean, and efficient alternative for commuters.
