Waterways Transport Fares Rise 31% in Nigeria, NBS Reports

Waterways transportation fares in Nigeria increased by 30.88 per cent year-on-year in May 2026, with the average passenger fare rising to ₦2,276.48 from ₦1,739.32 recorded in May 2025, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

The Nigerian Tribune reported that the latest figures from the NBS Transport Fare Watch also showed a 2.41 per cent monthly increase from ₦2,222.99 recorded in April 2026, indicating continued growth in the cost of travelling by water.

Waterways Transport Fares Vary Across States: The NBS data showed significant differences in water transportation costs across the country.

Rivers State recorded the highest average fare at ₦6,893.55, followed by Bayelsa State at ₦5,600.02.Borno State recorded the lowest average fare at ₦1,010.50, followed by the Federal Capital Territory at ₦1,128.68.

At the regional level, the South-South recorded the highest average water transport fare at ₦5,112.51, while the North-East had the lowest at ₦1,411.60.

The figures highlight the substantial differences in the cost of water transportation between Nigeria’s riverine communities and other parts of the country.

Waterways Patronage Grows Amid Rising Costs

Waterways transportation is increasingly being promoted as an alternative to road travel amid persistent traffic congestion.

Data on passenger movements along Lagos waterways showed that traffic reached 467,854 passenger movements in June 2026, the highest monthly figure in the first half of the year. This compared with 418,564 movements recorded in June 2025.

However, rising fares and operating expenses could affect the affordability of water transportation for commuters who depend on the service.

Waterways Fares More Than Double Since 2023: The NBS figures showed that the average water transportation fare increased from ₦1,045.15 in May 2023 to ₦2,276.48 in May 2026, representing an increase of more than 117 per cent over three years.

The rising costs come as operators face higher expenses for boat maintenance, engine servicing and spare parts.

Industry operators have previously warned that these expenses make it difficult to sustain operations without adjusting fares.

The latest figures raise questions about the affordability of water transportation as authorities and operators explore ways to expand its role in Nigeria’s transport system.