Global ride-hailing company Uber has introduced a boat service in Lagos, Nigeria, as part of its efforts to expand its offerings in the region. The initiative, currently in its pilot phase, represents a step towards tackling the city’s infamous traffic congestion and exploring alternative transportation options.
The pilot program, known as UberBOAT, is being launched in collaboration with the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA). The service will operate with two boats running four times daily, on weekdays only, between Ikorodu Ferry Terminal on the mainland and Five Cowries Terminal on the island. Each trip will cost a flat fee of ₦500 ($1.39), with Uber offering passengers a 50% discount on car rides to and from the jetties.Passengers can reserve their trips through the Uber app, where a dedicated boat interface has been added. Each vessel can accommodate up to 35 passengers, providing a comfortable and efficient alternative to road transport.
Government Support for Waterway Transport
The initiative was inaugurated by Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships in addressing the city’s transportation challenges. “We have limited land space in Lagos to support over 10% of Nigeria’s population. Partnering with the private sector is key to easing the daily lives of our residents,” Sanwo-Olu said during the launch, where he joined officials and passengers for the inaugural trip.
Lagos, a city of over 22 million people, is plagued by heavy road traffic due to its dense population and unique geography, which includes extensive waterways. The introduction of water transport services like UberBOAT is seen as a practical step to reduce congestion and improve mobility.
Uber’s Growth in Africa
The Lagos launch marks Uber’s first venture into water-based transport in sub-Saharan Africa, although the company has previously operated similar services in Cairo, Egypt, in partnership with Nile Taxi. The initiative aligns with Uber’s strategy to diversify its services and address localized transportation needs in its target markets.
Competition in the Nigerian Market
Uber faces stiff competition in Nigeria, where various transportation apps and services are vying for dominance. Competitors such as Bolt (formerly Taxify) and emerging bike-hailing platforms have gained traction, particularly in cities like Lagos, where traffic challenges often push commuters to explore alternative transport solutions.
The UberBOAT initiative demonstrates the company’s commitment to adapting to the unique demands of local markets while leveraging innovative solutions to address longstanding transportation issues. As the pilot phase unfolds, it remains to be seen how residents of Lagos will embrace this new service and whether it can scale to meet the needs of the city’s bustling population.
