The Lagos State Ferry Services (LAGFERRY) has announced the introduction of electric-powered boats into its fleet in 2026, a move expected to significantly reduce operating costs and translate into lower fares for commuters, while advancing the state’s clean energy and sustainable transport agenda.
The Managing Director of LAGFERRY, Hon. Abdulbaqi Ladi Balogun, disclosed this at the Ignite Lagos 3.0 – Light the Waterways Edition, a flagship water tourism and transport showcase designed to promote the economic and lifestyle potential of Lagos waterways.
Balogun said the deployment of electric boats marks a major milestone in Lagos State’s transition to greener, cheaper, and more efficient water transportation.
“From this year, we are introducing electric boats into our fleet, and this will bring down the cost of fares for our average daily commuter. It is good for the environment, good for our operating sustainability, and good for the pockets of Lagosians,” he said.
He explained that the initiative aligns with the broader vision of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to make waterways the next frontier of Lagos’ economic expansion, integrating transportation, tourism, and clean energy into a single growth ecosystem.
According to Balogun, since LAGFERRY commenced full commercial operations on February 6, 2020, the agency has transported more than 4.4 million passengers across the state, reflecting the growing acceptance of water transportation as a reliable alternative to road travel.
“Lagosians are embracing what we call the ‘Watermania lifestyle’, dropping their cars at jetties and terminals and travelling by boat to their destinations across the state,” he said.
He noted that with about one-third of Lagos’ landmass covered by water and 16 of the state’s 20 local government areas connected by waterways, ferry transportation offers one of the most efficient ways to move people and goods across the metropolis.
Balogun said LAGFERRY currently operates a fleet of 20 boats and is strengthening its sustainability drive in 2026 by adopting cleaner technologies, improving operational efficiency, and aligning commuters, operators, and regulators around environmental responsibility.
The tourism potential of Lagos waterways is also gaining traction. During the 2025 “Detty December” festive period, ferry tourism and leisure trips recorded more than ten times the usual passenger volume, underscoring growing interest in waterfront experiences.
On safety and security, Balogun said LAGFERRY has made major strides, recording only one incident in 2025, a figure he described as evidence of improved safety standards.
“Our waterways are secured, and our safety record is top-notch. Passengers have confidence that once they are onboard a LAGFERRY vessel, they will get to their destination safely,” he said.
He added that Lagos remains one of the safest environments for water transportation in Nigeria, making the state a natural hub for the expansion of marine mobility and tourism.
With electric boats set to join its fleet and demand for water travel surging, LAGFERRY is positioning Lagos waterways not only as a cleaner and cheaper transport option, but also as a critical pillar of the state’s future economy.
