By Oluyinka Onigbinde
The Lagos State Government has commenced the Project Management, Operations and Design (PMOD) Consultancy for the Omi Eko Project, a major step towards the implementation of its ambitious water transportation initiative aimed at transforming inland water mobility across the state.
Speaking at the PMOD Consultancy kick-off meeting held in Lagos on Wednesday, the Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, described the commencement of the consultancy as a critical milestone in the delivery of a modern, efficient and sustainable water transport system for millions of Lagos residents.
According to him, the consultancy marks the beginning of a strategic partnership that will provide the technical leadership, operational guidance and project management expertise required for the successful implementation of the Omi Eko Project.
Osiyemi said the project remains one of the most ambitious investments in inland waterways transportation in Africa, noting that it is designed to improve connectivity, reduce travel time, enhance passenger safety, stimulate economic activities and promote environmental sustainability through the deployment of electric ferry technology.
He explained that beyond project management and design, the PMOD consultant would play a central role in coordinating stakeholders, supporting implementation and ensuring 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,” the Commissioner stated.
Osiyemi stressed that the success of the project would depend on strong collaboration among the Lagos State Government, development partners, consultants, contractors and host communities.
He 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 towards achieving sustainable urban mobility in Lagos.
The Commissioner commended the Omi Eko Project Team, the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) and other stakeholders for their commitment to advancing the project.
Speaking on behalf of the PMOD Consultancy, the Head of Delegation and Director of the International Unit, Planet SA, Mr. Dimitris Galanis, reaffirmed the firm’s commitment to delivering the assignment in line with international best practices.
He said the consultancy would provide world-class project management, operational planning and technical expertise to ensure the successful implementation of the project.
“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 initiative of the Lagos State Government aimed at revolutionising water transportation through the development of modern infrastructure, deployment of electric ferry services and improvement of operational systems to support environmental sustainability and economic development across the state.
Osiyemi expressed confidence that the expertise of the PMOD consultancy team, coupled with the commitment of all stakeholders, would ensure the successful delivery of the project.
