WorldStage Newsonline– The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) is set to embrace the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as an alternative energy for ferries in the state.
The move was made in a strategic engagement meeting between LASWA, the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (Pi-CNG), representatives of RIL Hydro Kraft Ltd., (promoters of CNG for Marine), key boat operators and marine stakeholders across Lagos state.
The meeting was held at LASWA’s headquarters on Wednesday in Lagos.
The General Manager of LASWA, Mr Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, highlighted the strategic importance of introducing CNG powered boats and electric ferries as part of LASWA’s long-term commitment to reducing carbon emissions, enhancing passenger safety, and lowering operational costs for operators.
Emmanuel said the waterways are central to Lagos’ future mobility plans, adding that energy transition remains a core pillar in actualising this vision.
“The meeting marks a significant step toward the adoption of cleaner and more sustainable energy sources within the inland water transport sector.
“The session is aimed to align national clean energy goals with the realities and operations of local boat operators, explore the feasibility of marine CNG adoption.
“It will foster collaboration among stakeholders in driving an efficient energy transition in water transportation,” he said.
The team from the Presidential Initiative on CNG, led by the Chief Executive Officer, Mr Micheal Oluwagbemi, provided insight into the Federal Government’s roadmap for accelerating CNG adoption across multiple transport sectors, including maritime.
Oluwagbemi shared the success stories from the road transport CNG adoption across the country and assured stakeholders of strong technical support and enabling policies to ensure the adoption of CNG.
Also, the Chief Executive Officer RIL Hydro Krafts Ltd., Mr Layi Solesi, delivered a technical presentation on the conversion process, fueling infrastructure, safety standards, and the long-term economic benefits of CNG usage in marine transport.
Solesi showcased successful case studies from other coastal cities and expressed readiness to work closely with LASWA and the boat operators on pilot schemes.
Boat operators present raised critical questions and shared concerns regarding affordability, safety, engine compatibility, fueling infrastructure, and maintenance.
This landmark meeting reinforces LASWA’s role as a proactive regulator and bridge-builder in shaping a safer, greener, and more efficient water transport system for Lagos.
Stakeholders expressed optimism and commitment towards actualising the vision of a CNG-powered future on Lagos waterways.
