Nigeria’s Push for Sustainable Urban Transport
Nigeria is intensifying its efforts to reduce carbon emissions in the face of worsening climate change. In Lagos, a city grappling with severe traffic congestion despite its extensive waterways, the need for cleaner mobility solutions has become more urgent than ever. An indigenous company, Caaverton Marine Limited, a subsidiary of Caverton Offshore Support Group, has taken a significant step by launching Nigeria’s first electric passenger boats. This initiative marks a pivotal moment in the country’s journey towards sustainable urban transport.
Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperature, weather patterns, and climate systems on Earth. While some changes occur naturally, human activities are now the primary cause of the rapid changes observed since the Industrial Revolution. The main driver is the increase in greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, released by burning fossil fuels, deforestation, industrial processes, and agriculture.
Several factors contribute to climate change, including:
- Burning fossil fuels (coal, oil, and gas) for electricity, industry, and transport
- Deforestation, which reduces the Earth’s ability to absorb CO₂
- Industrial processes, including cement production and chemical manufacturing
- Agriculture, especially livestock methane emissions
- Waste management, where landfill decomposition releases methane
Countries and private investors are implementing measures to ensure that global efforts to reduce greenhouse emissions are realized. In Nigeria, the commercial hub of Lagos faces significant traffic challenges. Despite being surrounded by water, most residents rely on roads, leading to constant congestion. According to the Global Traffic Congestion Rankings 2023 by Traffic Index, Lagos State has the worst road traffic among all cities with at least 500,000 inhabitants worldwide.
To address these issues, Caverton Offshore Support Group has launched its electric boats, ‘Electric Omibus’, the first of its kind in Nigeria. These boats aim to promote a sustainable water transportation system. The company has also completed the launch and sea trials of Lagos’ first electric passenger ferry prototype. The vessel reached a verified top speed of 30 knots and completed multiple endurance runs, including a long-range voyage to Koko Beach. After a full day of testing, the battery remained at 40 per cent state-of-charge, demonstrating strong energy reserves and stable thermal behavior.
The idea behind the Electric Omnibus is to make water transportation in Lagos simpler, safer, and eco-friendly. By introducing these electric boats, the company aims to address the issue of carbon emissions and replace the rickety boats on the state waterways.
According to the Lagos Area Manager of the National Inland Waterways Authority, Sarat Braimah, 75 per cent of boats operating on Lagos waterways are not seaworthy. This was highlighted during a meeting with members of the Association of Tourist Boat Operators and Water Transport, Lagos, following a boat mishap that resulted in three drownings.
The introduction of these electric boats is expected to address these challenges and make waterway transport in the state more enjoyable.
Stakeholders Speak
At the official launch of the 32-seater electric boat in Lagos, the Chief Executive Officer of Caverton Offshore Support Group, Mr Bode Makanjuola, explained that the innovation aligns with the transportation vision of Lagos State Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration. He emphasized that the electric boat is the future of mobility in Nigeria and a part of sustainability.
The Sale Director at ExploMar, Mr Jonathan Wangi, stated that the company is committed to promoting electrification and intelligent mobility on the waters. He highlighted their use of sustainable energy and advanced technologies to create high-performance, eco-friendly systems.
The Manager, Corporate Services and Strategy at Caverton Marine, Mr Kumi Agbaje, emphasized that the event marks a milestone in Nigeria’s maritime story. He discussed the engineering process involved in building the electric ferry, focusing on weight distribution and battery integration.
The Senior Special Adviser to the President on Marine and Blue Economy, Prof Busayo Fakinlede, commended Caverton Marine for the initiative and underscored the need to extend such projects to other parts of the country.
A boat passenger, Johnpaul Ejiogu, noted the cost savings associated with electric ferries, highlighting the long-term benefits despite initial capital expenditure.
