Truck accidents: CIoTA harps on proper latching of containers

The Chartered Institute of Transport Administration of Nigeria (CIoTA) is engaging maritime stakeholders on proper latching of containers onto articulated vehicles to reduce accidents.

Dr Bashir Jamoh, President of CIoTA, gave the assurance in a statement in Lagos.

He was reacting to a recent accident in Lagos in which a container-carrying truck fell on a bus, killing occupants.

The occupants included two employees of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).

Jamoh said that failure to latch containers onto trailers was a major challenge facing transport within the port environment.

“We have reached out to key state actors with a view to getting their commitments as we strive to work toward a broad-based programme that will involve critical stakeholders.

“The programme centres on the importance of safely and proper latching of containers and cargo to trucks before they leave the marine and other import-export environments for our general road networks.

“It will also address the important issue of the competence and mental status of the drivers,” he said.

He promised that the association would intensify its advisory role on transportation matters to rid the sector of unsafe practices and ensure smooth and safe movement.

Jamoh who commiserated with families of the victims of the accident, reiterated the institute’s commitment to safety of all modes of transportation in the country, especially those operated within the port environment.

The CIoTA president, also Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), said he had conveyed the institute’s condolences to the parents of the deceased, on telephone.

“I spoke with both parents (Mrs Ajoku and Mr Nnaekpe) of the two youthful FAAN employees whose lives were sadly terminated by the fallen container while in a bus on their way from work.

“While comforting them, I assured them that CIoTA will not only be lending a voice to this matter but will play its full leadership role of advocating transportation safety on our roads,” he said.

He urged stakeholders to be supportive of CIoTA’s drive, saying that safety in the maritime sector was paramount. (NAN)