The Lagos Ferry Services (LAGFERRY) Ignite Lagos 2.0, a tourism initiative aimed at promoting the beauty of Lagos State through its waterways. According to Hon. Abdoulbaq Ladi Balogun, Managing Director of LAGFERRY, the event, which took place on the MV Adamu Orisa, showcased the state’s entertainment and tourism potential.

He noted that the initiative is part of the state’s efforts to develop its waterway tourism. “We are using the waterway to showcase the beauty of Lagos. We are bringing entertainment, tourism on the waterway,” he said.

The MD also emphasized the importance of safety, stating that it is the company’s top priority. “Safety is paramount, it’s number one. We guarantee you 100% safety while you’re on board,” he assured.

The launch of Ignite Lagos 2.0 is expected to boost the state’s economy through tourism and entertainment. Hon. Abdoulbaq Ladi Balogun noted that the event has generated interest from private sector investors, with several Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) already signed.

He attributed the success of the initiative to the support of the Lagos State Government, particularly Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. Since 2019, the state has witnessed significant developments in its waterway infrastructure, including the construction of new terminals and the acquisition of modern boats.

Hon. Abdoulbaq Ladi Balogun announced that LAGFERRY has plans to host more events on the waterway, including a Valentine’s Day celebration and a musical concert in June. The company aims to make Lagos State a top destination for tourism and entertainment in Nigeria.

Lagos APC Youth Leader, Dr. Seriki Muritala, expressed his delight for the Ignite Lagos 2.0, which brought together young people from across Lagos to showcase the state’s waterways and their benefits.

He applauded the initiative, saying it demonstrates how Lagos is a better place for everyone to strive and work.

He encouraged Lagosians to take advantage of the various amenities available in the state and explore them. Dr. Muritala also commended LAGFERRY for organizing the event, which provides an opportunity for people to unwind and connect.

According to Akinyemi Olajuwon, LAGFERRY has always been a trailblazer in terms of glamour and waterways, and the organization is now trying to bring in new ideas and innovations to revolutionize water transportation in Lagos. “It’s a new innovation, it’s a new dimension,” he said.

Olajuwon urged Lagos residents to patronize water transportation, assuring them that it is safe and reliable. “We have a LAGFERRY system that has been around for the past four years, and the Governor of the state, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has done a lot in terms of revolutionizing the waterway transportation in Lagos,” he said.

Olajuwon encouraged Lagos residents to experience the aquatic splendor of Lagos. “Waterways still remain the best,” he said. “We encourage negotiations to embrace waterways. And it’s safe. A whole lot of measures have been put in place to ensure that the standard of safety has improved tremendously.”

Hon. Salau Rukayat Ajibike, Supervisor for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Ikorodu West LCDA, describing her experience on the waterways as “enjoyable” and “exciting”.

She revealed that she had attended the event the previous year and was impressed by the experience. “We are here last year and it was a very big one. Everyone’s here. We enjoy ourselves, then we have the experience of the waterways,” she said.

Hon. Ajibike emphasized the safety and sustainability of LAGFERRY’s operations, urging residents to come out and experience the waterways for themselves.