By Moses Akaigwe
The Lagos State Government is set to launch 25 new ferries into its inland waterway as part of its efforts to boost water transportation and make it an attractive option for Lagosians.
The Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi disclosed this while briefing the Press about the achievements of his Ministry at the annual ministerial press briefing at Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, Alausa, Ikeja.
The Commissioner explained that the state government is on track with the launch of the new ferries to strengthen the multimodal transportation system of the state in line with THEMES+ development agenda of the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
Osiyemi while assuring that the new ferries were built in accordance with international safety standards and regulations through private partnership added that the ferries will commence test runs and thereafter begin full passenger operations.
The Transportation Commissioner also recalled that the ministry recently commissioned seven jetties and terminals at Ilashe Amuwo-Odofin, Ijegun Egba, Amuwo-Odofin, Marina, Badagry, Isalu Ajido, Badagry, Offin Ikorodu, Ito Omu Epe and Liverpool, Apapa.
He stated that the commencement of passenger operations of the new ferries will facilitate easy accessibility through the terminals to the people of the State
He also stated that the Lagos Ferry Services is currently running public water transportation in 24 routes from 16 terminals and jetties through its existing 17 commercial boats and has recorded over two million ridership.