By Hannah Tedunjaye
The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has donated security equipment, including torchlights, helmets and handcuffs, to the Ports Authority Police (Western) Command in Apapa, Lagos, as part of efforts to enhance security operations within the nation’s seaports.
Speaking during the presentation, the Port Manager of Lagos Port Complex, Lawal Adebowale Akano, said the Authority recognised the critical role of the police in safeguarding lives and assets at the ports and would continue to support them despite financial constraints.
Akano noted that his growing understanding of the challenges faced by police officers had strengthened his resolve to advocate for greater support for the Force.
He explained that while the Authority could not provide every item requested by the command at once, it is committed to supplying the equipment in phases until the needs are adequately met.
The Port Manager also acknowledged outstanding requests from the police, assuring that the Authority was considering them, although financial limitations remained a challenge.
He urged the police to continue engaging NPA management on their needs, expressing optimism that more support would be provided as resources become available.
“At any point in time, the police officer is the target because criminals believe that once they eliminate the police, they can carry out more harm. Every police officer is putting his or her life on the line.
“We cannot provide everything at once, but we will continue to bring items until what is available is sufficient. That is what we are working towards,” Akano said.
The Commissioner of Police, Ports Authority Police (Western) Command, Apapa, Oluwatoyin Iyabode Agbaminoja, assured the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) that the command will continue to strengthen security across the nation’s western ports following the donation of operational equipment by the Authority.
Speaking during the presentation of police equipment, Agbaminoja commended the management of the Lagos Port Complex for its consistent support to the command, describing Akano, as a caring leader who has remained responsive to the operational needs of the police.
She expressed appreciation for the latest donation, noting that the equipment would enhance the command’s ability to maintain a safe and secure environment for port users and businesses.
The Commissioner said the Ports Authority Police would continue to seek additional support to improve its operations, while urging the NPA not to relent in providing assistance to the command.She added that the command remains committed to ensuring that the nation’s ports remain peaceful, secure and conducive for business activities.
“To whom much is given, much is expected. We will not fail in all that is expected of us and will do even more than you expect,” she said.
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