NPA DONATES SECURITY GEAR TO PORT POLICE, STRENGTHENS MARITIME SAFETY IN LAGOS

NPA DONATES SECURITY GEAR TO PORT POLICE, STRENGTHENS MARITIME SAFETY IN LAGOS
By Prince Benson Davies As part of efforts to strengthen security across Nigeria’s seaports, the Nigerian Ports Authority has donated a fresh set of operational equipment to the Ports Authority Police, Western Command, Lagos.

The Authority said the intervention is in line with ongoing reforms aimed at upgrading the safety and operational capacity of security agencies working within the nation’s maritime domain.

The equipment was presented on Wednesday at the Ports Authority Police Headquarters, Apapa. The Managing Director of NPA, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, was represented by the Port Manager, Lagos Ports Complex, Apapa, Mr. Adebowale Lawal.

Items donated include bulletproof vests, tactical helmets, raincoats, touch lights, handcuffs, operational boots, batons, and other essential gear required for effective policing in port environments.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Dantsoho said the donation reflects NPA’s commitment to ensuring that critical maritime infrastructure is adequately protected. He noted that port security remains a top priority as Nigeria positions itself as a competitive trade gateway in West and Central Africa.

According to him, equipping security personnel properly will improve response time, deter criminal activity, and enhance the safety of port users, terminal operators, and cargo.

“The equipment will go a long way in improving the operational capacity of the Ports Authority Police in safeguarding port facilities, protecting port users, as well as preventing security breaches within the ports and waterfront areas,” the MD stated.

He added that the gesture underscores the Authority’s determination to work closely with security agencies to maintain order and protect investments within the port system.

Receiving the items, the Commissioner of Police, Ports Authority Police, Western Command, CP Oluwatoyin Agbaminoja, applauded the NPA Management for the support. She described the donation as timely and strategic.

CP Agbaminoja said the partnership between NPA and the Nigeria Police Force has remained critical to securing Nigeria’s maritime gateways. She noted that the new equipment will directly impact policing operations across the Lagos Ports Complex and adjoining waterfronts.

“This gesture demonstrates the enduring collaboration between the Nigerian Ports Authority and the Nigeria Police Force. We will ensure that the equipment is effectively deployed to enhance security operations and protect lives and property within our jurisdiction,” she said.

The CP further pledged that officers under her command will maximize the use of the gear to improve patrols, surveillance, and emergency response within the ports.

Maritime stakeholders present at the event described the donation as a practical step toward reducing vulnerabilities at the ports and boosting confidence among port users and investors.

With increasing cargo traffic and expanded port activities, NPA said it will continue to prioritize investments that support security, efficiency, and the ease of doing business across all port locations.