The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) has announced new measures aimed at reducing the cost of water transportation in Lagos by expanding fuel supply infrastructure and accelerating the adoption of cleaner-powered boats.
The initiative comes as boat operators continue to grapple with rising operating costs caused by higher petrol prices, which have led to increased ferry fares for commuters.
LASWA’s Head of Operations, Oladayo Ibrahim, said the authority is expanding its fuel distribution network while promoting the use of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and electric-powered boats to make ferry services more affordable and sustainable.
According to Ibrahim, the rising global price of crude oil has pushed up the cost of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), affecting all transport modes, including water transport. Despite these challenges, he said the Lagos State Government continues to subsidise ferry operations through Lagos Ferry Services (LAGFERRY) to ease the burden on commuters.
As part of its intervention, LASWA has expanded its fuel depot network through Ibile Oil and Gas to four locations across the state: Falomo, Badagry, Ikorodu, and Ijegun-Egba. The expansion is expected to improve fuel availability for boat operators while discouraging the unsafe practice of transporting fuel in jerrycans.
The authority believes the improved fuel distribution system will reduce operational bottlenecks, lower operating costs and help stabilise transport fares.
Beyond fuel supply, LASWA is also pursuing a long-term transition to alternative energy sources.
Ibrahim said the agency is partnering with Ril Hydro Kraft Limited to introduce CNG-powered boats into commercial operations, a move expected to significantly reduce fuel expenses for operators.
The authority has also begun piloting electric-powered ferries in collaboration with Carverton Marine as part of its strategy to deploy cleaner, safer and more environmentally sustainable vessels across Lagos waterways.
LASWA said the combined investments in fuel infrastructure and alternative energy technologies are expected to lower operating costs, improve efficiency and strengthen confidence in water transportation.
The authority reaffirmed its commitment to working with operators and other stakeholders to ensure that water transport in Lagos remains safe, reliable, accessible and affordable.
