Ayodele Olalere
Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Tuesday inaugurated 15 new ferries manufactured in Lagos by an indigenous company, Caverton.
The ferries were the 1st phase of 25 ferries expected to be delivered by the company to Lagos State Waterways Authority, LASWA.
Governor Sanwo-Olu said the ferries were part of his administration’s moves to provide alternative mode of transportation for Lagosians and ease movement on waterways and ensure safety.
“The first pillar of our THEMES agenda, which is transportation, is what we have demonstrated today. I am proud the ferries were manufactured here which is a testimony to revolutionising our public transport system. Its about having a reliable transport system to show that the economy can work,” he said.
The governor said the new ferries would reduce traveling time and cost of transportation.
He urged private operators of ferries to obey rules and regulations guiding water transportation by not operating at the time not allowed for it. He also directed LASWA authority to ‘enforce the rules.’
“Our administration has made investments to ensure safety on waterways are not compromised,” he said.
The General Manager, LASWA, Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, said the new ferries were ‘ a testament to the dedication of Lagos State government to improving the waterways.’
He added that the agency has reduced accidents on waterways and ensured water transportation is sustained.
He further noted the design for the new ferries were conceptualized at the Ministry of Transportation, and are equipped with modern equipment with features to ensure safety.
The Chief Executive Officer, Caverton Offshore Support Group, Olabode Makanjuola, said the new ferries ‘underscores the importance of water transportation in enhancing connectivity and mobility across Lagos State.’
He said the ferries named ‘OMIBUS’ will have ‘profound impact in alleviating traffic congestion and providing reliable , safe and efficient mode of transportation for all Lagosians.’
