Olushola Omogbehin
In its effort to reduce emergency response times, the Government of Lagos State has on Tuesday unveiled as well as handed over 10 newly procured Motorcycle Response Unit (MRU) Ambulances, popularly called “Ambulance Bikes“, to the Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASAMBUS).
Fitted with medical equipment, the motorcycles are specially designed to navigate Lagos’ heavy traffic, narrow inner roads and other hard-to-reach areas, allowing paramedics to reach victims faster in situations where every second is critical
During the official handover ceremony, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr Kemi Ogunyemi, said the initiative is a critical step needed in tackling the emergency challenges and care in a mega city like Lagos.
“These Ambu-bikes are Lagos’ response to our unique traffic situation. They will reach patients faster than conventional ambulances, deliver immediate treatment, and, where necessary, call in larger ambulance units for evacuation. This saves precious time and ultimately saves more lives.”
According to her, the 220cc superbikes are each equipped with life-saving tools such as sphygmomanometers, stethoscopes, pulse oximeters, nebulizer machines, glucometers, automated external defibrillators, AEDs, oxygen kits, radios, sirens, and specialized protective gear for the riders.
She explained that trained paramedics will man the units and will be offering first aid and basic life support in cases such as collapses, bleeding or respiratory distress, pending the arrival of full-scale ambulances.
She said each of the 220cc superbikes is equipped with vital life-saving tools, including sphygmomanometers, stethoscopes, pulse oximeters, nebulizer machines, glucometers, automated external defibrillators, AEDs, oxygen kits, radios, sirens, and specialized protective gear for the riders.
Praising Governor Sanwo-Olu’s, she said his swift approval of the project is a testimony of his commitment to quality healthcare.
“Once we presented the data, Mr. Governor immediately approved this innovation. It’s about access, quick response, and saving lives. This is Lagos once again showing leadership in healthcare innovation, the first of its kind in Nigeria,” Ogunyemi stated.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr Olusegun Ogboye, said the rollout is part of the state’s five-year roadmap to transform pre-hospital emergency services. He disclosed that Lagos has invested in mobile intensive care units, a boat ambulance and plans are on ground to integrate air ambulances into the system.
“The concept is simple: bikes beat the traffic, paramedics intervene immediately, and ambulances take over for evacuation. This seamless system reduces mortality rates and increases survival chances,” He stressed.
