The Lagos State Ferry Services (LAGFERRY) has announced plans to introduce the Eko Water Taxi along the Lekki–Epe corridor to ease traffic congestion and improve commuting for residents and businesses.
Managing Director, Abdoulbaq Balogun, disclosed the initiative during a strategic management retreat held in Epe, noting that the service is part of broader efforts to strengthen water transportation across Lagos.
He explained that the agency also plans to deploy electric boats and expand cargo movement across key routes such as Lekki, Apapa, Ikorodu, Epe, and Badagry. According to him, the move will reduce pressure on road networks while promoting sustainable transport and economic growth.
Balogun added that Lagos’ transport policy, introduced three years ago, covers multiple transport modes and is focused on improving efficiency, particularly within the water transport sector. He said the retreat would enhance staff capacity to drive long-term development in the system.
He also commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for reforms in the sector, including integrating boat operators into public service and approving the construction of a LAGFERRY headquarters at the Mile 2 Terminal.
A transport consultant, George Banjo, noted that effective implementation of the state’s transport policy has already produced measurable improvements, attributing this to the appointment of capable personnel to drive execution.
Meanwhile, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transportation, Olawale Musa, said the retreat was aimed at developing strategies to position waterways as a central part of Lagos’ integrated transport system.
Represented at the event by Aderounmu Agbomeji, he highlighted the state’s vast waterways and the need to transform them into a reliable, eco-friendly alternative that complements road and rail networks.
Officials emphasised that expanding water transport would help reduce congestion, lower emissions, shorten travel time, and improve overall quality of life, while supporting a more efficient and connected urban mobility system.