By Tunde Ojudun
The Association of Maritime Truck Owners (AMATO) on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, inaugurated its new Lagos State Executive Committee at a well-attended ceremony that drew key stakeholders in the transport sector. The event also marked the launch of the AMATO Rescue Team, designed to complement the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) in clearing broken-down vehicles at no immediate cost.
The newly inaugurated committee is led by Chairman Alhaji Ahmed Saro, with certificates of office presented to the executives.
Delivering the keynote address, AMATO National President, Chief Remi Ogungbemi, explained that the Rescue Team would strengthen LASTMA’s efforts in managing traffic disruptions caused by breakdowns. He emphasized that AMATO is a solution-driven body focused exclusively on maritime trucking operations, committed to tackling industry challenges with practical remedies rather than complaints.
Chief Ogungbemi traced the sector’s difficulties to the poor planning of the port concessioning exercise at Apapa and Tin Can Island, which failed to account for the critical role of trucks in port logistics. He lamented the removal of designated truck parks during privatization, noting that indiscriminate parking along port access roads was rare before the concession era.
In line with its problem-solving mandate, AMATO has identified land capable of accommodating about 3,500 trucks, which it proposes to develop into a standard marshalling yard for Apapa and Tin Can Island ports. The proposal has been submitted to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy and referred to the Nigerian Shippers Council for action.
To address financial leakages and exploitative practices affecting truckers, AMATO unveiled its Rescue Team, equipped with walkie-talkies, and other communication tools. Pending the acquisition of its own tow trucks, the team will collaborate with the National Towing Vehicle Owners Association.
In his goodwill message, immediate past Lagos State Chairman of AMATO and Chairman of the Lagos State Cargo Operations Committee (LASTCOC), Alhaji Lukman Shittu, praised the new chairman’s track record, expressing confidence in his leadership. He also commended Chief Ogungbemi’s resilience and foresight, describing him as “a one-man battalion” who has fought tirelessly for the association.
Chief Steven Okafor, representing the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), highlighted the transport sector’s role as the second-largest employer of labour after government, stressing its importance to Nigeria’s economic development.