LASWA moves to introduce CNG-powered boats in Lagos

The General Manager of Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), Mr. Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, has highlighted the strategic importance of introducing CNG powered boats and Electric Ferries to reducing carbon emissions, enhancing passenger safety, and lowering operational costs for operators in Lagos State.

Mr. Oluwadamilola Emmanuel stated this in his address at a strategic engagement with the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (Pi-CNG), representatives of RIL Hydro Kraft Limited ( Promoters of CNG for Marine) key boat operators and marine stakeholders on Wednesday, July 9, 2025 at LASWA headquarters in Ikoyi, Lagos.

The LASWA boss, who pointed out that adoption of CNG is part of LASWA’s long-term commitment to reducing carbon emissions, said engaging key stakeholders was a significant step for the adoption of cleaner and more sustainable energy sources within the inland water transport sector in Lagos State.

He emphasized that the waterways are central to Lagos’ future mobility plans, and energy transition remains a core pillar in actualizing this vision.

The engagement was aimed to align national clean energy goals with the realities and operations of local boat operators, explore the feasibility of marine CNG adoption, and foster collaboration among stakeholders in driving an efficient energy transition in water transportation.

The team from the Presidential Initiative on CNG, led by the PD/CEO, Engr Micheal Oluwagbemi, provided insight into the federal government’s roadmap for accelerating CNG adoption across multiple transport sectors, including maritime. He shared the success stories from the road transport CNG adoption across the country and assured stakeholders of strong technical support and enabling policies towards the adoption of CNG for Marine.

The CEO RIL Hydro Krafts Limited 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. He also 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. In response, both LASWA and the federal team assured them of gradual, inclusive implementation backed by capacity-building programs, and stakeholder involvement at every stage.

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 actualizing the vision of a CNG-powered future on Lagos waterways.