The French Government said the revolutionization of Lagos urban transport system is a manifestation of the growing relationship between Nigeria and France.
The French Minister Foreign Trade, Economic Attractiveness and French Nationals Abroad, Olivier Becht, made these remarks at the groundbreaking of the OMI EKO Initiative in Lagos, South-West Nigeria.
It was part of activities during his two-day visit to Nigeria’s economic hub.
The OMI EKO Initiative is a collaboration between the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), the French Development Agency (AFD) and the European Union.
Mr. Becht noted that the project was poised to bring about substantial cost savings, impressive reductions in travel time, and a significant decrease in CO² emissions.
“Beyond its positive impact on mobility, the OMI EKO project is anticipated to generate a host of economic opportunities,” he said.
“France, as a pioneer in sustainable urban development, brings a wealth of expertise and experience. French businesses, renowned for their cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices, are ready to play a pivotal role in the implementation of this project. This initiative also signifies the shared commitment between France and Nigeria to build resilient cities.” He added.
Movement
The session began at the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) headquarters in the presence of Lagos State Commissioner for Transports, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, and Lagos State Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Mr. Mosopefolu George, with a deep-dive discussion on urban mobility issues in Lagos, the great potential of inland waterways transportation through the OMI EKO project as well as the economic opportunities that will arise from the implementation of the project.
A set of French companies expressing interest in the Omi Eko project was introduced, covering various services from vessel design and construction, to navigational aids and engineering studies.
The delegation then embarked on a boat trip around Lagos Island to see major infrastructures to be delivered under the OMI EKO project as well as another key project supported by France: the Lagos State Strategic Transport Master Plan (LSTMP) project.
Boat ride
On the boat trip, the Minister could see Marina interchange hub to be developed under LSTMP, which aims to enhance access to the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system.
He could also observe various ferry terminals to be upgraded by 2028 under the OMI EKO project as Ebute Ero, Flour Mills and Falomo.
The project’s objective is to develop mass public Inland Waterways Transport in Lagos to transport 24 million commuters by waterways every year.
The project will significantly reduce travel cost, allow great travel time savings and large reduction of CO² emissions.
It will include the development of 15 ferry routes covering a total length of 140km and the upgrade of 25 ferry terminals and jetties.
Lagos will also deploy the first electric vessels in Sub-Saharan Africa, being at the forefront of innovation.
This project implemented by LASWA could run over 2024-2029.
Olusola Akintonde
