Lagos boat operators seek subsidies, more jetties, funding

By Diden Abigail Owuntarose

Boat operators in Lagos State have called on the incoming state government to provide subsidies, expand water transport infrastructure and introduce financial support schemes to strengthen the sector and improve their livelihoods.

The operators, under the Association of Tourist Boat Operators and Water Transporters of Nigeria (ATBOWATON), Lagos State Chapter, also urged the government to construct more jetties and fuel stations, particularly in underserved waterfront communities.

The demands were made at a political awareness programme organised by the association in collaboration with its national leadership, where stakeholders discussed the challenges facing water transportation and the development of Lagos’ blue economy.

Deputy Chairman of ATBOWATON, Lagos State Chapter, Babatunde Segun, said inadequate access to jetties and fuel stations remained a major challenge for operators in remote areas.

He explained that some boat owners had lost their vessels in accidents, while others were struggling with faulty engines and the high cost of replacing damaged equipment.

Segun appealed for government subsidies on boat engines and flexible loan repayment arrangements to help affected operators rebuild their businesses and resume full operations.

He also called for increased investment in waterway safety, security, youth employment and tourism, noting that improved water transportation could create jobs, enhance passenger safety and reduce pressure on Lagos roads.

The founding national chairman of ATBOWATON, Dr Tarzan Balogun, emphasised the need to prioritise passenger safety, warning that frequent accidents could discourage commuters from using waterways.

Meanwhile, Lagos State Governor’s Special Adviser on Blue Economy, Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to developing water transportation through initiatives such as the Omi Eko Project.

The project is expected to support modern ferry infrastructure, electric-powered vessels, improved terminals, waterway dredging and digital transportation systems.

Emmanuel, however, stressed that existing boat operators should not be excluded from opportunities arising from the sector’s modernisation, urging them to embrace professionalism, safety standards and innovation.

The operators said sustained government support and improved infrastructure would help make water transportation more accessible, affordable and competitive in Lagos State