The Association of Maritime Truck Owners (AMATO) has launched an upgraded members’ web application database and introduced a new insurance scheme for truck operators as part of efforts to enhance transparency, efficiency, and professionalism in Nigeria’s maritime haulage sector.
The association said the enhanced digital platform was developed entirely by its in-house technical team without the involvement of external software developers, underscoring its commitment to innovation and digital transformation.
According to AMATO, the upgraded database is designed to strengthen the integrity of membership records, improve operational efficiency, and support better decision-making within the industry, particularly around activities at Lagos ports.
The association explained that the latest version of the platform incorporates advanced features, including intelligent duplicate-prevention mechanisms, cross-validation processes, and year-based data management tools. These improvements are aimed at ensuring that members’ records remain accurate, reliable, verifiable, and auditable.
AMATO noted that while membership databases may appear routine, maintaining a robust and continuously updated digital system is critical for addressing operational challenges and meeting modern industry standards.
As part of its digitalisation drive, the association disclosed plans to integrate Quick Response (QR) code technology into the platform. The feature will enable real-time verification of membership records by regulators, stakeholders, business partners, and members of the public.
The association said the initiative would significantly improve transparency and enhance confidence in the credibility of information maintained by the organisation.
In addition, AMATO revealed that it is exploring opportunities to securely share relevant Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) from the database with key industry stakeholders. According to the group, such integration would promote seamless collaboration, strengthen regulatory oversight, improve operational efficiency, and boost investor confidence in the maritime haulage industry.
The association stated that the database project was conceived to eliminate challenges often encountered by transport associations when required to provide dependable, verifiable, and internationally compliant membership records.
AMATO described the platform as one of several innovative solutions it has developed to modernise operations and drive a more technology-enabled transport ecosystem.
Beyond the database upgrade, the association announced the introduction of a new insurance product known as AMATO-PAGO (Pay-As-You-Load Insurance).
The scheme is designed to provide affordable and accessible insurance coverage for both AMATO members and independent truck operators working within the maritime haulage sector.
According to the association, the insurance package seeks to address longstanding concerns around risk management and financial protection for truck owners and operators whose businesses are exposed to various operational and commercial risks.
Speaking on the initiatives, Mr. Ajibola Adeshina, Head of Technical and Research at AMATO, said the association remains focused on developing practical and sustainable solutions to industry challenges.
He noted that the introduction of the upgraded database platform and the AMATO-PAGO insurance scheme reflects the organisation’s determination to leverage technology and innovation to improve industry standards.
Adeshina said the initiatives demonstrate that local industry players can develop world-class solutions capable of competing with global standards when supported by vision, commitment, and a culture of innovation.
He added that AMATO would continue to invest in technology-driven systems that improve efficiency, transparency, accountability, and sustainability across the maritime transport value chain.
Industry stakeholders have increasingly called for greater digitalisation within the maritime and logistics sectors as Nigeria seeks to improve port efficiency, strengthen supply chains, and enhance the competitiveness of its transport infrastructure.
With the launch of the upgraded database and insurance scheme, AMATO says it is positioning itself at the forefront of efforts to build a more transparent, technology-driven, and resilient maritime haulage industry.
