The Lagos State Government has taken another significant step towards transforming water transportation with the commencement of the Project Management, Operations and Design (PMOD) Consultancy for the flagship Omi Eko Project.
The move, unveiled at the PMOD Consultancy Kick-off Meeting in Lagos on Wednesday, is expected to provide the technical expertise, operational guidance and project management support needed to deliver a modern, efficient and sustainable water transport system across the state.
Boost for Water Transport Modernisation
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, described the commencement of the consultancy as a major milestone in the implementation of the Omi Eko Project, which he said is one of Africa’s most ambitious investments in inland waterways transportation.
According to him, the consultancy marks the beginning of a strategic partnership that will provide the technical leadership required for the successful execution of 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.
Consultants to Drive Project Delivery
The commissioner explained that the role of the PMOD consultants goes beyond project management and design, noting that they will coordinate stakeholders, support implementation and help ensure the project’s successful delivery.
He stressed that the success of the initiative would depend on close collaboration among the Lagos State Government, development partners, consultants, contractors and host communities.
Osiyemi also expressed 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 support of 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 for their commitment in advancing the project to its current stage.
Commitment to Global Standards
Speaking on behalf of the PMOD Consultancy, the Head of Delegation and Director of the International Unit at Planet SA, Mr. Dimitris Galanis, reaffirmed the firm’s commitment to delivering the 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”, Galanis said.
He added that the consultancy looks forward to working with all stakeholders to deliver a safe, efficient and environmentally sustainable water transport system that will benefit millions of Lagos residents.
Transforming Lagos Waterways
The Omi Eko Project is a flagship initiative of the Lagos State Government aimed at revolutionising water transportation through the deployment of modern infrastructure, electric ferry services and improved operational systems.
The project is expected to boost connectivity, reduce travel time, improve passenger safety, stimulate economic activities and promote cleaner transportation as Lagos continues to expand its multimodal transport network.
Osiyemi expressed confidence that the expertise of the PMOD consultants, coupled with the commitment of all stakeholders, would ensure the successful delivery of the transformational project.