Like a regular user of water transportation in Lagos told me recently, the Lagos ferry service is like a faster, very comfortable BRT system. The difference, she said, is that this is on water.
Lagos State Ferry Services Corporation (better known as LAGFERRY) has become very popular in coastal communities within Lagos State providing affordable, fast and safe taxi services on water for many years.
It is probably because of the overwhelming success of the ferry service that Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) launched the Omi Bus Ferries — a bigger boat service that has made commuting fun and more communal.
It is also worth noting that the Omi Bus is a homemade masterpiece — showcasing the fecundity of our marine engineers in making what is most needed and adding value to commercial aquatic commuting.
LASWA has its work cut out for it. Over the years, with a third of the state covered by water, the agency has been committed to improved safety on her waterways. Safety in the cabin and the travelling routes.
Since early November, apart from the flagging off of Omi Bus, LASWA equally commenced the annual exercise of clearing and removing water hyacinth across jetties, terminals, and routes on the state inland waterways.
Back to Omi Bus. The “blue card” as I call it is the only means of payment for a ride. A Cowry card ensures no cash or cheque (if you know what I mean) is permitted as a means of exchange for a trip. This techy payment system therefore integrates all the modes of the state-run public transportation means in Lagos – ensuring a smooth interchange between BRT, blue or red metro.
Last week when the announcement of the ferry service was made, LASWA noted that “this Integration ensures seamless travel options for our passengers, fostering an interconnected transport network within the state”.
More important is the seriousness the state has attached to safety going forward. Apart from the clearing of debris and other possible inhibitors in the waters, the state government added: “We are committed to prioritizing the safety and peace of mind of our commuters. To this end, the Omi Bus Ferry fleet is insured by LASACO Assurance, providing robust coverage and reinforcing our pledge to deliver secure and reliable services on our inland waterways”.
This must be the first in the whole country. Passengers are insured realtime as they sail across routes —meeting appointment or simply on a jolly ride. The insurance leg of the safety protocols will put passengers hearts at peace knowing that the state has gone above and beyond to cater for their wellbeing even before they hop on their preferred ferry.
There are more: “Other safety features onboard the Omi Bus ferries include standard life jackets, life buoys, fire extinguishers, and pyrotechnics. It also has a non-slip deck mat and a public address system”.
Before the Omi Bus, it was impossible to board LAGFERRY without a life jacket. It has become the normal procedure in Lagos that all passengers must be fully kitted before advancing on deck. This is a sign of a government that is serious and prioritizes the sanctity of life and safety of her residents.
It goes without saying that observers would not know that a ferry also requires a fire extinguisher since water is the means of transportation. This is where Lagos is different and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is a pacesetter – recognising that in Lagos, global standard is the barest minimum.
For relaxation and other business friendly gestures, the new ferry service has more to offer: “…the Omi Bus has a stereo system, LED lighting, and USB charging points ensuring a comfortable sailing experience.
“With fewer CO2 emissions that are eco friendly, these locally made Omi Buses have received international recognition for their safety standards from Interferry, a global ferry association.
“The general public is thereby invited to take advantage of the ferry alternative for a faster and reliable journey around Lagos”.
For those that reside near jetties and whose businesses, work or pleasure permits them to use the waterways, Lagos has done it again. It is upon the use of this service that you will understand what you are missing. It is safe, convenient, fast and cheaper. Omi Bus has come to revolutionise water transportation not just in Lagos but nationwide.
