Lagos Electric Boats Set to Launch in 2026

The Lagos State Government is ready to change how people move around the city by introducing electric-powered boats. This new plan, led by the Lagos Ferry Services (LAGFERRY), aims to make water travel cheaper and better for the environment. The state hopes that by using electricity instead of fuel, they can lower the cost of running the boats and pass those savings on to daily passengers.

The Managing Director of LAGFERRY, Hon. Abdoulbaq Ladi-Balogun, shared this exciting news during the "Ignite Lagos" event held at the Five Cowries Terminal in Ikoyi. He explained that these electric vessels are not just about being "green" but are also a smart economic move. For a city like Lagos that deals with heavy traffic and high fuel costs, these boats offer a faster and more affordable way to get around.

Over the last five years, more Lagosians have started using the waterways. Since LAGFERRY began operating in February 2020, they have carried 4.4 million passengers. Balogun calls this trend the "Watermania Lifestyle," where drivers choose to leave their cars at the docks and hop on a boat to avoid the stress of Lagos roads.

​The popularity of water travel reached a new high during the recent "Detty December" period in 2025. LAGFERRY recorded ten times more trips than in previous years, as people used the boats to reach beach houses and resorts. The agency says its strict focus on safety has helped people feel confident about traveling on the water.

This move toward electric boats is a major step in the "Ignite Lagos" initiative. The goal is to turn the city’s waterways into a hub for tourism, culture, and business. With 16 out of 20 local governments in Lagos accessible by water, the government believes the future of transport in the state is definitely on the waves.