Assessment of Sustainable Inland Water Transportation in Lagos State, Nigeria

Assessment of sustainable inland water transportation in Lagos state, Nigeria is a critical area of research that provides insights for improving safety, enhancing user confidence, and promoting sustainable transport solutions. Water transport being among the oldest mode of transport is crucial to the development of any nation and this is very crucial to Lagos state because of its abundant water. It provides means of transportation for both rural and urban dwellers in Lagos, particularly along the coastal areas and inland waterways. It is a known fact that water transportation has been neglected for a long period by both the government and the private sector, particularly in the area of safety of passengers on Lagos waters. This study however assess inland water transportation in Lagos state and its impact. Inland waterways are made up of navigable rivers, lakes, coastal creeks, lagoons and canals and advantageous in terms of cost of moving heavy freight. The aim of this research is to assess the complimentary role of water transportation to commuters travelling in Lagos metropolis. The study concluded that despite the major operational difficulties faced by boat owners and operators, there is still a sizable amount of passenger traffic in this type of water transportation. According to the study, government and private boat operators should offer sufficient covered speed boats and safety vests for all users, as well as a boat repair facility, intermittent dredging of waterways, the removal of wrecks and water hyacinths, stabilization of transportation costs, , and speed limiter devices.