The Lagos State Government has introduced a new fleet of ambulance motorcycles, designed to cut through traffic and reach emergency victims faster.

On Tuesday, 10 specially equipped Motorcycle Response Unit (MRU) ambulances, popularly called “Ambu-bikes,” were officially handed over to the Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASAMBUS).

According to officials, the bikes are built to handle Lagos’ notorious gridlock, narrow inner roads, and hard-to-reach areas—helping paramedics deliver life-saving care within minutes.

Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, described the initiative as a smart response to the challenges of emergency healthcare in a megacity like Lagos.

“These Ambu-bikes will reach patients faster than conventional ambulances, deliver immediate treatment, and, where necessary, call in bigger ambulance units for evacuation,” she said. “This saves precious time and ultimately saves more lives.”

Each of the 220cc superbikes comes fitted with life-saving tools such as oxygen kits, defibrillators, IV fluids, CPR equipment, radios, and protective gear for riders. Trained paramedics will operate them, providing first aid and stabilizing patients until a full ambulance arrives.

Dr. Olusegun Ogboye, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, explained that the project is part of a five-year plan to upgrade Lagos’ emergency medical services, which already includes mobile intensive care units, a boat ambulance, and plans for air ambulances.

“The concept is simple: bikes beat the traffic, paramedics act immediately, and ambulances handle evacuation. This reduces mortality rates and gives patients a better chance of survival,” Ogboye said.

Mrs. Beatrice Makinde, Director of LASAMBUS, called the initiative a “game-changer,” noting that for years, traffic had slowed down response efforts.

“With these ambulance bikes, we can now reach victims faster, save more lives, and give Lagosians the emergency care they deserve,” she said.

The project, approved by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu under the THEMES+ agenda, marks yet another first in Nigeria’s healthcare innovation.