The Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Maritime Police Command, AIG Okunade Ronke Nurat, has reaffirmed the command’s commitment to sustaining reforms aimed at improving port operations, facilitating legitimate trade and strengthening security within the maritime environment.
AIG Okunade gave the assurance when she received the leadership of the Association of Maritime Truck Owners and Transporters of Nigeria (AMATO), Apapa Chapter, led by its chairman, Alhaji Ahmed Saro, during a courtesy visit to the command in Lagos.
Saro commended the AIG for her leadership and efforts during the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) Port Clearance Exercise earlier this year, especially the measures aimed at easing port congestion, eliminating illegal checkpoints and tackling extortion along port corridors.
According to him, the impact of the intervention has continued beyond the PEBEC exercise, with AMATO observing sustained efforts to prevent the return of previously identified operational challenges.
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He also noted improvements in truck movement within the port environment, a reduction in avoidable road accidents and increased truck turnaround, which he said had contributed positively to legitimate maritime trade.
Saro assured the Maritime Police Command of the association’s continued cooperation in maintaining a safe, orderly and business-friendly port environment.
Responding, AIG Okunade said collaboration among maritime stakeholders remained essential to the effective discharge of the mandate of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, within the maritime domain.
She said the gains recorded in improving the port environment must be sustained through continuous engagement, responsible stakeholder participation, intelligence sharing and strict compliance with the law.
The AIG also warned truck owners and transport operators against providing transportation or other forms of assistance to criminal elements operating within or around the port environment.
She specifically cautioned AMATO members against knowingly or unknowingly facilitating the movement of contraband, prohibited items, illicit consignments, arms or other materials capable of undermining national security, particularly as the country approaches another election period.
AIG Okunade urged members of the association to promptly share credible information with the Police and other relevant security agencies concerning suspicious persons, movements, consignments or activities.
