… As State-Owned Ferry Operator Records 4.4 Million Passengers in Five Years
The Lagos State Government (LASG) plans to introduce electric-powered boats into the Lagos Ferry Services (LAGFERRY) fleet within the year, as part of its commitment to providing affordable, sustainable, and environmentally friendly public transportation.
The Managing Director of Lagos Ferry Services (LAGFERRY), Hon. Abdoulbaq Ladi-Balogun disclosed this during the agency’s third annual Ignite Lagos event, themed “Light the Waterways,” held on Saturday at the Five Cowries Terminal, Ikoyi.
Balogun explained that the lower operating and maintenance costs associated with electric vessels would enable LAGFERRY to significantly reduce fares for daily commuters. He noted that the initiative goes beyond environmental responsibility, describing it as an economic necessity for a megacity grappling with traffic congestion and rising transportation costs.
According to him, LAGFERRY has successfully ferried 4.4 million passengers since the commencement of operations on February 4, 2020, reflecting the growing acceptance of water transportation among Lagos residents.
“More Lagosians are increasingly embracing water transportation – a lifestyle I describe as the ‘Watermania Lifestyle’ – with commuters choosing to leave their cars at jetties and terminals in favour of boats to navigate the city. We continue to record a significant daily increase in passenger traffic across the Lagos waterways,” Balogun stated.
He added that the shift toward water transportation underscores growing public confidence in ferry services as a reliable and efficient alternative to road travel.
“It is also pertinent to note that we recorded our busiest festive season to date during the 2025 Detty December period, with a tenfold increase in trips compared to previous years. Residents increasingly used the waterways to access beach houses and coastal resorts, while our strict adherence to safety and security standards helped sustain public trust,” he said.
The LAGFERRY Ignite Lagos event is a landmark initiative designed to celebrate, promote, and reimagine the Lagos waterways as a dynamic hub for transportation, tourism, culture, and entertainment.
#Ignite3.0
#Lagferry… Sustainable SAILING for ALL
#AGREATERLAGOSRISING
