AMATO Joins MWUN, NARTO in Rejecting N12,500 E-Call-Up Fee at Lekki-Epe Corridor

AMATO Joins MWUN, NARTO in Rejecting N12,500 E-Call-Up Fee at Lekki-Epe Corridor

Lagos, Nigeria – June 17, 2025 — The Association of Maritime Truck Owners (AMATO) has declared its full support for the National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) and the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) in opposing the N12,500 charge imposed on the Electronic Call-Up System for trucks operating along the Lekki-Epe corridor of Lagos State.

Describing the charge as “ill-conceived,” AMATO said the decision by the Lagos State Government prioritizes revenue generation over the welfare of citizens and the ease of doing business in the state. The association warned that the consequences of the policy would be dire, especially given the country’s current economic climate.

According to AMATO, the new rate would result in higher operational costs for truck owners, a burden that would inevitably be passed on to end users. This, they say, could further escalate the cost of goods and services, stifle economic activity, and undermine investor confidence.

“If this matter is not resolved through dialogue, and all involved unions—including AMATO, NARTO, and MWUN—are forced to withdraw their services, the resulting economic disruption could be catastrophic,” said Comrade Ridwan Bello, Vice Chairman of AMATO’s Lagos Chapter.

He noted that a collapse of logistics and transport services would ripple through the economy, leading to job losses, increased poverty, and potential social unrest.

Bello urged the Lagos State Government to adopt a more inclusive and consultative approach in its policymaking, especially when it affects critical sectors like transportation.

“The transport sector is the backbone of the economy. Any disruption will trigger far-reaching consequences,” he said. “The government must seek alternative means of raising revenue without adding to the burdens of already struggling businesses and citizens.”

AMATO concluded by calling for the immediate suspension of the new fee and for stakeholders to return to the negotiation table to develop a solution that supports both state revenue and sustainable economic growth.

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