CP Agbaminoja backs AMATO Rescue Team to improve safety, ease gridlock on port access roads

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

The Association of Maritime Truck Owners (AMATO) has intensified efforts to improve operational efficiency and safety within Nigeria’s port corridors with the unveiling of a specialised Trucks Rescue Team and the introduction of its newly inaugurated State Executive Committee to the Ports Authority Police (Western) Command in Lagos.

The delegation, led by AMATO National President, Chief Remi Ogungbemi, paid a courtesy visit to the Commissioner of Police, Ports Authority Police (Western) Command, CP Oluwatoyin Iyabode Agbaminoja, at the Command Headquarters in Apapa.

During the visit, the association formally introduced its new state leadership headed by Alhaji Saro Ahmed, while reaffirming its commitment to professionalism, discipline and closer collaboration with security agencies operating within the maritime sector.

A major highlight of the meeting was the presentation of the association’s newly established Trucks Rescue Team, designed to provide rapid emergency response to broken down or distressed trucks operating along port access roads and logistics corridors.

AMATO said the initiative was aimed at reducing traffic obstructions, minimising delays to cargo movement and improving safety around the nation’s busy port environment, particularly in Lagos where truck congestion has remained a major challenge for maritime operations.

Speaking during the meeting, the association commended the Ports Authority Police Command for its continued efforts in maintaining security and orderliness within the ports and surrounding logistics routes.

In her remarks, CP Agbaminoja praised the association for taking proactive steps to support smoother port operations, stressing that collaboration among stakeholders remained critical to sustaining safety, security and efficiency in the maritime transport system.

She urged members of the new executive committee and the rescue team to operate within the law and maintain strong synergy with security agencies in carrying out their activities.

The police commissioner also reiterated the command’s readiness to support lawful initiatives capable of improving public safety, reducing traffic disruptions and enhancing economic activities linked to the maritime sector.

The meeting ended with both parties pledging stronger cooperation toward building a safer and more efficient port transport environment.