LASWA Unveils Measures To Reduce Boat Fares Through Fuel, Clean Energy Initiatives

LAGOS – The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) has announced a series of measures aimed at reducing the cost of water transportation by expanding fuel supply infrastructure and accelerating the adoption of cleaner energy-powered boats across the state.

The initiative follows concerns from boat operators and commuters over rising ferry fares, largely attributed to the increasing cost of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).

Speaking on the development, LASWA’s Head of Operations, Oladayo Ibrahim, said the authority is working to ease operators’ financial burden by improving access to fuel while promoting the transition to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and electric-powered boats.

According to him, the sustained increase in global crude oil prices has driven up the cost of PMS, affecting operating expenses across all transport modes, including water transportation.

Despite the economic challenges, he noted that the Lagos State Government has continued to subsidise ferry operations through Lagos Ferry Services (LAGFERRY) to cushion the impact on commuters.

Ibrahim disclosed that LASWA, through Ibile Oil and Gas, has expanded its fuel distribution network with fuel dump facilities at four strategic locations—Falomo, Badagry, Ikorodu and Ijegun-Egba. He explained that the initiative is expected to eliminate the unsafe practice of transporting fuel in jerry cans while ensuring easier access to fuel for boat operators.

He said the expanded infrastructure would reduce operational bottlenecks, lower operating costs and ultimately help moderate transport fares for passengers.

As part of its long-term strategy, Ibrahim revealed that LASWA is partnering with Ril Hydro Kraft Limited to introduce CNG-powered boats into commercial operations. The initiative, he said, is expected to significantly reduce fuel costs for operators and improve the affordability of ferry services.

He also disclosed that the authority has commenced the pilot phase of electric-powered ferries in collaboration with Carverton Marine, describing the project as a key step towards deploying cleaner, safer and more environmentally sustainable vessels on Lagos waterways.

According to him, the combined impact of improved fuel infrastructure and alternative energy technologies will enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs for operators and commuters, and strengthen public confidence in water transportation.

Ibrahim reaffirmed LASWA’s commitment to working with operators and other stakeholders to ensure that water transport in Lagos remains safe, reliable, accessible and affordable.