Lagos secures €170m boost for waterways project
via Punch Nigeria12 min read
EIB Global, the development branch of the European Investment Bank, has announced a €170m financial partnership with the Lagos State Waterways Authority to develop sustainable and efficient water transport in Lagos. This collaboration, the first between LASWA and EIB, makes EIB the largest funder of the Omi Eko Project. The project aims to improve urban mobility with socio-economic and environmental benefits for the population, aligning with the strategic Abidjan-Lagos corridor supported by the EU's Global Gateway Initiative. The plan includes implementing 15 structured ferry routes along 140 kilometers, linking 25 upgraded and expanded ferry terminals, and deploying 75 state-of-the-art electric vessels, each capable of carrying up to 440 passengers. These vessels are expected to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and water pollution. Once fully implemented, the project is projected to increase waterborne transport in Lagos from less than one percent to eight percent by 2032, in line with the Lagos State Transport Master Plan. The project will also improve accessibility for underserved waterfront communities and offer time and cost savings for commuters. The Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr Oluwaseun Osiyemi, and the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Blue Economy, Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, both expressed commitment to the project's success. The EIB Vice-President, Mr Ambroise Fayolle, highlighted the project's role in developing safer, mor
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MTN Nigeria has launched the 2026 edition of its Live it 100 Campus Tour, a nationwide program aimed at empowering students through learning, creativity, entertainment, and digital opportunities. The tour will visit seven tertiary institutions across Nigeria's South-West, North-West, South-East, South-South, and North-Central regions between June and November 2026. According to MTN Nigeria’s Chief Marketing Officer, Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, the initiative provides platforms for young Nigerians to learn, create, connect, and thrive, supporting them beyond connectivity. The three-day activation at each institution will feature activities such as a Digital Game Village with video games, board games, silent party experiences, food, drinks, photo opportunities, SME showcases, product demonstrations, device displays, and SIM registration. A Content Creation Forum will teach aspiring creators to produce and monetize digital content, followed by a Cinema Experience. The final day will include a celebrity appearance, live performance, social media engagement, and a chance for a lucky student to win a new car.
The Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, Delta State, will host the finals of the 2026 President Federation Cup for both men's and women's competitions. The men's final on Saturday, July 11, will feature three-time champions El-Kanemi Warriors against Ikorodu City. El-Kanemi Warriors secured their spot by defeating Wikki Tourists 3-1 in Katsina, with captain Zayyad Musa crediting home support for their win. Ikorodu City advanced after beating Nasarawa United 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in Benin City. In the women's competition, the quarter-finals continue this week, with matches including Sunshine Queens versus Confluence Queens, Rivers Angels against FC Robo Queens, Heartland Queens battling Ibom Angels, and Edo Queens facing Nasarawa Amazons.
African Taekwondo champion Harun Usman shared insights into his taekwondo journey, his achievement as Africa's best Poomsae athlete, and his Olympic dreams. Usman began taekwondo in school for fitness and self-defense, developing a deep passion for the sport. His parents supported his decision, providing a strong foundation for his pursuit. He described his happiest career moment as becoming African champion and receiving the MVP award at the African Taekwondo Championships in Mali, viewing it as a victory for Poomsae in Nigerian taekwondo and an inspiration for young athletes. Usman emphasized that winning gold for Nigeria means everything to him and he embraces the role model responsibility. He views his African champion title as a testament to sacrifice and dedication, raising his personal standards and responsibility to elevate Nigerian taekwondo. Competing at the African Championships, especially winning gold and MVP, is a significant honor for him. Usman dreams of competing at the Olympics and, if he qualifies, aims to become a world champion to create a pathway for young Nigerian Poomsae athletes. His biggest challenges are funding and sponsorship, though he is grateful for recent support from the National Sports Commission and the Nigeria Taekwondo Federation. He hopes his recent accolades will attract further sponsorship for future demanding tournaments like the World Championships. Usman's ultimate goal is to be the best in the world and inspire the next generation,