The Lagos State Government has officially begun the Project Management, Operations and Design (PMOD) Consultancy for the Omi Eko Project, marking another milestone in the implementation of the state’s initiative to transform water transportation across Lagos.
Speaking at the PMOD Consultancy Kick-off Meeting, Commissioner for Transportation Oluwaseun Osiyemi described the start of the consultancy as a critical step toward delivering a modern, efficient and sustainable water transport system for Lagos residents. He said the kick-off marks the beginning of a strategic partnership that will provide the technical leadership, operational guidance and project management expertise needed to deliver the project. “The Omi Eko Project represents one of the most ambitious investments in inland waterways transportation in Africa. Beyond modern infrastructure and electric ferry technology, the project is designed to improve connectivity, reduce travel time, enhance passenger safety, stimulate economic activities and contribute meaningfully to environmental sustainability through cleaner transport solutions,” Osiyemi said.
Osiyemi said the PMOD consultant’s role extends beyond project management and design to coordinating stakeholders and supporting implementation, and stressed that the project’s success will depend on close collaboration between the state government, development partners, consultants, contractors and host communities. He thanked the French Development Agency (AFD), the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the European Union (EU) for their continued support of the state’s sustainable urban mobility vision under Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, and commended the Omi Eko Project Team, the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), and other stakeholders for their work in bringing the project to its current stage.
Speaking on behalf of the PMOD Consultancy, Dimitris Galanis, Head of Delegation and Director of the International Unit at Planet SA, said the consultancy is committed to delivering its assignment in line with international best practices. “We are honoured to partner with the Lagos State Government and its development partners on this transformational project. Our team is committed to providing world-class project management, operational planning and technical expertise to ensure the successful implementation of the Omi Eko Project. We look forward to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to deliver a safe, efficient and sustainable water transport system that will benefit millions of Lagos residents,” Galanis said.
The Omi Eko Project is a flagship Lagos State Government initiative aimed at modernising water transportation through new infrastructure, electric ferry services and improved operational systems, while advancing environmental sustainability and economic development across the state. Osiyemi said he is confident that the PMOD team’s expertise, together with stakeholder commitment, will ensure the project’s successful delivery.