AMATO Warns Haulage Operators Against Deploying Rickety Trucks At Ports
Chief Remi Ogungbemi
The Association of Maritime Truck Owners has issued an urgent advisory to all maritime haulage operators, mandating immediate compliance with basic vehicle safety requirements following reports of unroadworthy trucks operating within the sector.
In an official notice directed at truck owners, fleet managers, and drivers, AMATO President, Chief Remi Ogungbemi expressed deep concern over the increasing number of heavy-duty vehicles operating without essential safety features, specifically functional headlamps, working rear lights, and reflective tapes.
While missing lights or reflective markings might appear to be minor issues, the AMATO leadership stressed that these basic features are vital life-saving requirements on the road, particularly during nighttime operations or unexpected breakdowns.
“In the event of a truck breakdown or emergency at night, reflective tapes and properly functioning lights help to alert other road users to the presence of a moving or stationary truck, thereby preventing avoidable accidents and saving lives” he said
The association emphasized that full compliance will protect lives and property, and safeguard valuable investments.
Underlining the severity of the directive, the AMATO President called on operators across the maritime logistics chain to inspect their fleets prior to deployment, emphasizing that safety is a shared responsibility owed to families and all road users.
“Safety is not optional; it is a responsibility we all owe to ourselves, our families, and every road user.
“I urge every maritime truck owner and driver to ensure that their trucks are equipped with functional headlamps, rear lights, and reflective tapes before embarking on any journey. Let us work together to eliminate preventable accidents and uphold the image of professionalism in the maritime haulage industry.” Ogungbemi stated
He advised truck owners, fleet managers, and drivers to ensure that all required safety features are fully functional before any vehicle is deployed, grounding non-compliant trucks to uphold the highest standards of safety and professionalism across the sector.
