Story by Dili Utomi
In an atmosphere devoid of rancour and acrimony which usually herald elections in Nigeria, the Association of Maritime Refers Truck Owners (AMARTO), Tuesday, elected a new leadership to pilot her affairs for the next two years. The event took place at the Rockview Hotel GRA, Apapa, Lagos and had some long term operators in attendance.
The post of Chairman went to Babalola Gbadeyan while Olutola Obamero clinched the position of Vice Chairman.
Abdulrahman Jibo became the Executive Secretary/Administrative official even as the post of Public Relations Officer went to Tunji Akinwale. Messrs Mohammed Auwalu, Nathan Doye and Pessu Temisanren were elected Provost, Treasurer and Financial Secretary respectively.
In his pre-election remarks, Patrick Ocheme Michael, the election co-ordinator and General Secretary, Board of Trustees, implored all members to offer undiluted assistance and cooperation to whoever that is elected as an executive for the interest of the association. He urged members to be elected to have as priority the interest of the Association, her members and the future at heart. He urged the emerging executive to be committed and serve without bias as to tribe, religion or any other divisive factor or interest.
He told the emerging leaders: “Lead us aright, keep your records Al the time and avoid internal wranglings of any sort”.
In his post-election remarks, Chief Remi Ogungbemi, Chairman, Association of Maritime Truck Owners (AMATO) who witnessed the election expressed satisfaction with the way and manner it was conducted.
“I congratulate you all and pray God to give you genuine wisdom and knowledge.” He enjoined the new leaders to endeavour to have the qualities required as leaders – patience, understanding, tolerance.”
Transportation, he explained, is a universal language. There should not be any case you say ‘this is my tribe’. “No! Every person in the sector is your tribesman. Hold on to this and I pray to God almighty to guide you.”
In his post-election speech, the new Chairman, Babalola Gbadeyan, speaking on behalf of the new leaders, requested all members to join hands to make the association great.
“We come from various homes to come and trade in Apapa. Let us join hands together to move our association and the maritime industry forward.”
“I am very happy today. For a truck organisation to have a unique election like this without any rancour and dispute, I commend every member of the association for all their efforts and hereby say, We all need your supports.”
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