LAGOS, Nigeria – The Lagos State Government has announced plans to commission 10 new ferries to enhance water transportation and support the state’s socio-economic development.
Speaking at the Joint Citizens’ Media Engagement Forum in Alausa, Ikeja, on Friday, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, highlighted the significance of the new ferries, which were built locally by young Nigerian engineers.
“These ferries are world-class, not just as a means of transportation but as a symbol of what is possible in Nigeria,” Omotoso said.
“Very soon, we will be commissioning about 10 of them,” he added.
He recalled that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu had previously inaugurated 15 ferries, bringing the total to 25, aimed at reducing travel time and integrating three modes of transportation in Lagos.
The Commissioner also commended media organisations for their role in providing feedback and amplifying the state government’s policies.
“This forum is an opportunity to say thank you to the media for propagating and explaining our policies to Lagosians,” he added.
Efforts in Tourism and InfrastructureOn tourism, Omotoso noted that the state government is committed to making the annual ‘Detty December’ celebrations even more vibrant.
“Lagos has become an example of how the world should celebrate the end of the year, with festivities running from October to early January,” he said.
Highlighting infrastructure achievements, the Commissioner revealed that the Sanwo-Olu administration had inaugurated 35 roads and five bridges across Lagos.
Addressing Water Shortages
Omotoso acknowledged the ongoing challenges with water supply in Lagos but expressed optimism that the completion of the Adiyan II water project would alleviate the problem.
“Currently, Lagos has only 30% of its water needs, which is insufficient for a state of this size,” he explained.
“The Adiyan II waterworks, with a capacity of 70 million gallons per day, will significantly improve water supply,” he said.
He assured residents that the state government was taking necessary steps, including compensating property owners affected by the project’s right of way.
“Some property owners even declined monetary compensation, requesting only to have water supplied to their homes once the project is complete,” he said, adding that progress on the project will reach substantial levels this year.
The Joint Citizens’ Media Engagement Forum served as a platform for feedback between the state government and its citizens, with Omotoso reiterating the administration’s commitment to addressing public needs and delivering impactful projects.
