- The Lagos State Government has commenced the installation of advanced concrete pontoons across strategic jetties as part of an ambitious effort to modernize water transport infrastructure and deliver a world-class commuting experience to residents. The latest development aligns with the state’s long-term vision to expand intermodal transportation and reduce dependence on road travel.
The move was confirmed in a statement issued on Sunday by the Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Dayo Bush Alebiosu. According to him, the first phase of installations is already underway at jetties in Agboyi Ketu (Kosofe Local Government Area), Ijegun Egba (Amuwo Odofin Local Government Area), and Bayeku/Ikorodu (Ikorodu Local Government Area).
Modern Concrete Pontoons Designed for Stability and Safety
Alebiosu explained that the new concrete pontoons—floating platforms used for safe and stable docking—are engineered to eliminate the instability associated with older wooden or metallic boarding structures. Traditional pontoons tend to sway or shake when passengers board boats, often causing fear or hesitation among users, especially during peak water levels or windy conditions.
“These pontoons are constructed from high-density concrete blocks,” the commissioner noted. “They float smoothly on water, withstand strong wave pressure, and offer a stable, flat surface. The design mimics the experience of stepping onto solid ground, thereby improving passenger confidence and comfort.”
He added that beyond serving as docking areas, the modular design of the pontoons allows them to be adapted for other uses such as temporary pedestrian bridges during seasonal flooding, erosion events, or emergency operations. Similar multi-purpose installations have been successfully implemented in other coastal regions around the world.
Statewide Expansion Planned Across Major Water Routes
Following the initial installations, Lagos State plans to deploy additional pontoons in strategic transport hubs, including
Ebute Ero (Lagos Island)
Ijede (Ikorodu)
Apa (Badagry)
Mile 2 (Amuwo Odofin)
Mowo (Ojo LGA)
Other priority coastal communities
The Falomo Jetty (Five Cowries Terminal) already operates a partial installation, currently equipped with a two-sided pontoon system. The new jetties, however, are being developed with six-sided rigid pontoons that provide 360-degree operational efficiency, easing docking, crowd circulation, and vessel movement.
Part of the €410 Million Omi Eko Water Transport Modernization Project
The pontoon upgrade forms a major component of the broader Omi Eko Project, a €410 million initiative aimed at transforming Lagos’ water transportation system into a modern, safe, efficient, and eco-friendly network.
The comprehensive project—expected to run from 2024 through 2030—will deliver:
78 high-capacity electric ferries
Dredging and channelization of 15 water routes
Expansion and modernization of 25 ferry terminals
A unified digital ticketing system linked to the Cowry Card
Integrated intermodal transport connection with buses and the Lagos Metro
Climate-resilient infrastructure to reduce flood and tidal risks
Funders of the project include the French Development Agency (AFD), the European Investment Bank (EIB), and the European Union, marking one of the largest international collaborations in Nigeria’s transport sector.
Reducing Traffic Congestion and Enhancing Sustainability
Lagos remains one of Africa’s most congested megacities, with close to 90% of mobility occurring on its overburdened road network. The state government aims to shift a significant portion of daily trips to waterways, which remain one of the fastest and least congested modes of transportation.
The introduction of electric ferries will also help reduce pollution, cut carbon emissions, and align with global climate commitments. By improving water access, the initiative is expected to ease pressure on major road corridors like Ikorodu Road, Lagos-Badagry Expressway, and Third Mainland Bridge.
A New Era for Water Transport in Lagos
Commissioner Alebiosu emphasized that the upgrades are not merely infrastructural additions but represent a broad transformation of Lagos’ mobility framework.
“This initiative is about redefining how residents move, work, and connect across the state,” he stated. “A modern, safe, and resilient water transport network is essential to building a globally competitive Lagos that offers its people efficient alternatives to road travel.”
He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to inclusive development, assuring that communities served by waterways will benefit from safer terminals, improved ferry standards, and enhanced passenger experience.
As installations continue, the Lagos State Government calls on residents to embrace water transport as a viable and sustainable mode of mobility, especially as new jetties, upgraded pontoons, and electric ferries come online.
