AIG MARITIME URGES TRUCKERS TO REJECT CRIMINALS, SHARE INTELLIGENCE TO SECURE PORTS

AIG MARITIME URGES TRUCKERS TO REJECT CRIMINALS, SHARE INTELLIGENCE TO SECURE PORTS
By prince Benson Davies
The Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Maritime Police Command, AIG Okunade Ronke Nurat, has called on truck owners and transport operators in Nigeria’s port corridors to refuse any form of support to criminal elements and to play a more active role in securing the nation’s maritime gateways through timely intelligence sharing.

AIG Nurat made the appeal on Friday during a courtesy visit by members of the Association of Maritime Truck Owners and Transporters of Nigeria, AMATO, Apapa Chapter. She said the progress recorded in recent months in port security and trade facilitation can only be sustained if stakeholders in the transport chain act responsibly and align with the law.

According to her, the port environment remains a target for criminal networks seeking to move contraband, arms, prohibited goods and other illicit consignments. With the forthcoming election period approaching, she noted that the risk is heightened and requires greater vigilance from those who operate daily within the ports.

“Do not provide transportation facilities or other forms of assistance to criminal elements operating within or around the port environment,” AIG Nurat told the truckers. She emphasized that compliance with the law and cooperation with security agencies are critical to keeping the ports safe and efficient. She further assured that any information volunteered by transporters would be treated with the highest level of confidentiality and professionalism.

The AIG linked the current appeal to the gains achieved following the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council, PEBEC, Port Clearance Exercise earlier in the year. During that intervention, the Maritime Police Command was instrumental in dismantling illegal checkpoints, reducing congestion and curbing extortion along port access roads. She said maintaining those gains will depend on continued collaboration, strict adherence to legal standards and prompt reporting of suspicious activities.

Responding, AMATO Chairman, Apapa Chapter, Alhaji Ahmed Saro, commended the Command for its efforts. He acknowledged that the reduction in illegal roadblocks and improved truck turnaround times have helped minimize accidents and support legitimate maritime trade.

Security analysts observe that the complexity of the port ecosystem, which involves truckers, importers, terminal operators and multiple agencies, makes it susceptible to exploitation. They noted that truck operators are uniquely positioned to serve as an early-warning network because of their constant presence and movement within the corridors.

AIG Nurat reiterated the Command’s commitment to intelligence-led policing and continued engagement with maritime stakeholders. She warned that involvement in criminal activity attracts severe consequences including prosecution, seizure of vehicles and consignments, and disruption to business operations. Conversely, she said, a law-abiding transport chain enhances safety, reduces losses and strengthens access to legitimate trade opportunities.

The Maritime Police Command said it will sustain dialogue with transport unions and other port users to ensure that Nigeria’s ports remain secure, competitive and conducive for business.