The Lagos State Government has introduced 10 newly purchased Motorcycle Response Unit Ambulances, also called Ambulance Bikes, to improve emergency response and save lives across the state.
The government explained that the motorcycles can easily move through Lagos traffic, narrow roads, and hard-to-reach places. This makes it possible for paramedics to reach patients quickly in emergencies where “every minute counts.”
According to a statement from the Ministry of Health’s Director of Public Affairs, Tunbosun Ogunbanwo, the ambulance bikes are 220 CC superbikes. Each one is fitted with three aluminum storage boxes carrying emergency equipment.
The medical tools include blood pressure monitors, stethoscopes, oxygen tanks, glucometers, nebulizers, defibrillators (AED), forceps, pulse oximeters, radios, sirens, protective boots, and infrared helmets for the riders.
Speaking at the commissioning, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Health, Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, said the innovation shows Lagos State’s leadership in emergency care and healthcare delivery.
She explained that trained paramedics would operate the bikes to give immediate first aid and life-saving support before full ambulances arrive. They would also handle cases like bleeding or sudden collapse, where fast treatment can stabilize patients.
“The Ambu-bikes are Lagos’ answer to traffic problems in a megacity,” Ogunyemi said. “They will get to patients faster than normal ambulances, give quick treatment, and then call for bigger ambulances if needed. This way, lives are saved faster.”
She added that the bikes are not just motorcycles but are well-equipped with gadgets like oxygen, defibrillators, and nebulizers. “These bikes have everything except a bed,” she explained, noting that paramedics are trained to perform CPR, stop bleeding, give IV fluids, and keep patients stable until help arrives.
Dr. Ogunyemi also stressed that the initiative is cost-effective. She said it is much cheaper to deploy an Ambu-bike than a traditional ambulance, yet it ensures faster response and better results. “It’s about access, efficiency, and saving more lives for Lagosian,” she concluded.
