The proposed water taxi system will include designated ‘water stops’—jetty points functioning similarly to traditional bus stops—to enhance route coordination and passenger access. Balogun said the goal is to optimise the state’s extensive waterways in the face of rising pressure on its road networks.
Lagos, Nigeria — The Lagos State Government is set to roll out water taxis before the end of 2025 as part of efforts to decongest the state’s overburdened roads and promote sustainable transportation. Preparatory works, including the dredging and sterilisation of major inland waterways, have already commenced to facilitate full-scale operations.
At a press conference held at the Falomo Jetty on Tuesday, the Managing Director of the Lagos State Ferry Services (LAGFerry), Mr. Ladi Balogun, confirmed the ongoing infrastructure upgrades and revealed that the project aligns with the state’s THEMES+ development agenda, which emphasises environmentally friendly and efficient transport solutions.
“We are currently dredging key routes to ensure they are navigable for the planned operations,” Balogun stated. “If we are unable to launch by the second quarter of 2025, we are certain the service will be operational before the year ends.”
The proposed water taxi system will include designated ‘water stops’—jetty points functioning similarly to traditional bus stops—to enhance route coordination and passenger access. Balogun said the goal is to optimise the state’s extensive waterways in the face of rising pressure on its road networks.
He further highlighted that safety remains a critical focus, acknowledging that public apprehension continues to affect ridership. However, he assured Lagosians that robust safety measures, such as compulsory life jackets and rigorous training for operators, are in place to protect commuters.
“To encourage public confidence in water transport, we conducted a demonstration sail to show just how safe and efficient the system is,” he added.
Since the commercial launch of LAGFerry in February 2020, over three million passengers have been ferried across various routes in Lagos. Balogun noted that the service, which began with only four boats under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration in 2019, has seen substantial growth owing to consistent government investment.
In addition to expanding the ferry fleet, the state is also fast-tracking the completion of new jetties and ferry terminals. Some are under construction, while others are nearing completion and expected to be commissioned in the coming months to strengthen the transport network.
The introduction of water taxis is one of several interventions by the state government aimed at reducing gridlock, cutting down carbon emissions, and improving urban mobility for residents.
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