E–hailing drivers affiliated with platforms such as Uber, Bolt, and InDrive have urged the Federal Government to include them in the ongoing initiative for the free conversion of commercial vehicles to Compressed Natural Gas.
The drivers argue that their inclusion in this scheme would significantly reduce operating costs and promote a more sustainable transportation sector.
This was disclosed by the South-West Vice-President of the Amalgamated Union of App-based Transporters of Nigeria, the umbrella body of the e-hailing drivers, Mr Kolawole Aina, in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Lagos on Friday.
Aina emphasized that AUATON is officially registered and recognized by the federal government, asserting that it should not be overlooked in the government’s efforts to mitigate the impact of rising fuel prices on commercial drivers.
He called for inclusive policies that address the challenges faced by all stakeholders in the transportation sector.
The AUATON Vice President stated that e-hailing drivers have been excluded from the government’s free conversion initiative because they are viewed as operating private businesses.
This classification has prevented them from benefiting from the support aimed at commercial drivers, highlighting a gap in the government’s approach to addressing the needs of all transportation stakeholders.
He noted, however, that neglecting e-hailing drivers could have broader economic repercussions.
Their exclusion from support measures may disrupt the transportation sector, potentially leading to job losses and decreased consumer mobility, ultimately impacting the overall economy.
