Niger Delta Gets Electric Ferries for Safer Waterways

Communities across Nigeria's Niger Delta are about to get a major upgrade in how they travel by water, with new electric ferries and modern passenger boats coming to replace aging vessels that have caused too many preventable accidents.

The Niger Delta Blue Economy Investment Summit just announced a partnership with Caverton Marine, an indigenous boat manufacturer that recently transformed water transportation in Lagos. The company will bring the same safety standards and climate-friendly technology to the Niger Delta, where millions depend on boats for essential travel.

"Water transport is not optional but essential" in the Niger Delta, said Cedric Ogwu from the Summit's organizing committee. The region's network of waterways serves as the primary transportation route for countless communities, making safe passage a matter of daily importance.

Caverton Marine has already proven its model works. The company delivered world-class passenger ferries to Lagos State through public-private partnerships, visibly improving both safety and commuter confidence on the city's busy waterways.

Now they're manufacturing fully electric ferries that meet global safety standards right here in Nigeria. These boats cost less to operate over time and produce zero direct emissions, addressing both economic and environmental concerns at once.

Managing Director Bode Makanjuola explained that many waterway accidents stem from equipment failure and substandard vessels. "By deploying certified boats built to international specifications, these risks can be significantly reduced," he said.

The Ripple Effect

This partnership represents more than just new boats. It's positioning the Niger Delta to attract green investment while directly improving daily life for coastal communities.

The electric ferries align with global energy transition goals, helping Nigeria reduce carbon emissions in a practical, visible way. Dr. Uche Igwe, co-convener of the Summit, noted that this climate-friendly approach opens doors to international funding specifically targeted at sustainable infrastructure.

Meanwhile, safer vessels mean families can travel with confidence, workers can commute reliably, and economic activity can flow more freely between island and coastal communities. The Summit will serve as a meeting place for governments, investors, and operators to scale these solutions across the entire region.

The Niger Delta Blue Economy Investment Summit runs February 9-11 in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, bringing together policymakers and industry leaders to unlock more opportunities across the region's waterways.

Safe, clean transportation is finally coming to communities that have waited too long for this essential upgrade.