.Says it ‘ll improve urban mobility, enhance economic productivity

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

The Lagos State, Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has applauded the European Investment Bank (EIB) for its support towards the Omi Eko Project, describing the intervention as a transformative investment that will improve urban mobility, enhance economic productivity and improve the quality of life for Lagos residents.

Sanwo-Olu, said the Omi Eko Project aligns with his administration’s THEMES+ development agenda, particularly the Transportation and Traffic Management pillar.

The governor spoke while receiving a delegation from the EIB, led by its Vice President, Ambroise Fayolle, during a courtesy visit at Lagos House, Marina, on Friday.

The Governor highlighted Lagos’ position as Nigeria’s commercial and economic hub, noting that the city is growing in reputation as a leading destination for technology investments, financial services, innovation and entrepreneurship.

Sanwo-Olu explained that the Omi Eko project forms a critical part of Lagos State’s strategy to develop an integrated, intermodal transportation system that effectively combines road, rail and water transport.

The Governor noted that with about one-third of Lagos covered by water, the State is committed to maximising its waterways as a viable alternative for commuters.

Sanwo-Olu said the Omi Eko Project will provide modern, climate-resilient water transport infrastructure, including improved terminals, safer navigation channels and enhanced commuter services.

The Governor explained that the project, whose name translates to “Water of Lagos”, seeks to unlock the economic potential of the state’s waterways while significantly reducing travel times for residents.

Sanwo-Olu added that journeys that currently take up to two hours could be reduced to between 40 and 45 minutes, thereby boosting productivity and improving the daily lives of citizens.

Describing the project as a well-considered investment, the governor thanked the EIB, the African Development Bank and other development partners for supporting Lagos’ efforts to build a sustainable and efficient transportation system.

He also stressed the importance of providing commuters with multiple transportation options to ease pressure on existing road and rail networks.

Sanwo-Olu also welcomed the EIB’s growing investments in Nigeria’s small and medium-scale enterprise sector, describing SMEs as the true engine of economic growth.

The governor referenced the recently concluded Lagos Investment Summit, which attracted both local and international investors, and reiterated the state’s commitment to converting investment commitments into tangible economic outcomes.

Speaking earlier, the EIB Vice President, Ambroise Fayolle, said Nigeria had become the bank’s largest country of operations in Africa in 2025, with total lending valued at €550 million.

He noted that the development reflects the growing strategic partnership between Nigeria, the European Union and the European Investment Bank.

Fayolle disclosed that the bank recently signed a €200 million facility with the Development Bank of Nigeria to support digital and green investments by micro, small and medium-sized enterprises.

He also announced the signing of a financing agreement with Wema Bank aimed at improving access to finance for underserved businesses while promoting environmentally sustainable practices.

Speaking on the Omi Eko Project, Fayolle described it as one of the European Union’s flagship initiatives in Lagos.

He said the project is being financed by the EIB, the European Union and the French Development Agency (AFD) and will support the construction of modern ferry terminals and the deployment of electric boats to improve water transportation across the state.

According to him, the initiative is designed to reduce congestion, improve environmental sustainability and provide Lagos residents with a more efficient means of commuting, adding that the bank remains committed to supporting projects that promote economic growth, environmental resilience and improved living standards across Nigeria.

The EIB delegation is also expected to visit several projects in Lagos, including: investments supported through partnerships with the Bank of Industry, as part of efforts to deepen collaboration and explore additional opportunities for sustainable development.