The Lagos State Government has commenced the Project Management, Operations and Design (PMOD) consultancy for the Omi Eko Project, marking a major milestone in its drive to develop a modern, efficient and environmentally sustainable water transportation system across the state.
The commencement of the consultancy is expected to provide the technical leadership, operational planning and project management expertise required for the successful implementation of the flagship initiative, which aims to improve connectivity, reduce travel time, enhance passenger safety and stimulate economic activities along Lagos waterways.
Speaking at the PMOD Consultancy Kick-off Meeting held on Wednesday in Lagos, the Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, described the exercise as a critical step towards delivering a modern, efficient and sustainable water transport system capable of transforming mobility for millions of residents.
According to him, the kick-off meeting marks the beginning of a strategic partnership that will provide the technical leadership, operational guidance and project management support needed to ensure the successful delivery of the Omi Eko Project.
Osiyemi said the project is one of the most ambitious investments in inland water transportation on the African continent, noting that it extends beyond the construction of modern infrastructure and the introduction of electric ferry technology.
“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,” he said.
He explained that the responsibilities of the PMOD consultant go beyond project management and design, stressing that the consultancy would play a central role in coordinating stakeholders, supporting implementation and ensuring that every phase of the project meets the expected standards and timelines.
The commissioner emphasised that the success of the Omi Eko Project would depend on strong collaboration among the Lagos State Government, development partners, consultants, contractors and host communities, describing collective commitment as essential to achieving the project’s objectives.
Osiyemi also conveyed the appreciation of the Lagos State Government, under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to the French Development Agency (AFD), the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the European Union (EU) for their continued financial and technical support, as well as their confidence in the state’s vision for sustainable urban mobility.
He further commended the Omi Eko Project team, the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) and other stakeholders whose commitment and dedication have advanced the project to its current stage.
Speaking on behalf of the PMOD consultancy, the Head of Delegation and Director of the International Unit at Planet SA, Dimitris Galanis, reaffirmed the firm’s commitment to delivering the assignment in line with global 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.
Osiyemi expressed confidence that the expertise of the PMOD consultancy team, combined with the commitment of all stakeholders, would ensure the successful delivery of the project and position Lagos as a leading model for sustainable urban water transportation in Africa.