Uber, Bolt drivers urge inclusion in free CNG conversion initiative
E-hailing drivers from platforms such as Uber, Bolt, and InDrive have urged the federal government to include them in the ongoing initiative to convert commercial vehicles to compressed natural gas for free.The drivers argue that their inclusion in this scheme would significantly reduce operating costs while also promoting a more sustainable transport sector.
Mr Kolawole Aina, South-West Vice-President of the Amalgamated Union of App-based Transporters of Nigeria, the umbrella body of e-hailing drivers, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Lagos on Friday.
Aina emphasised that AUATON is officially registered and recognised by the federal government, and that it should not be overlooked in the government's efforts to alleviate the effects of rising fuel prices on commercial drivers.
He advocated for inclusive policies that address the challenges confronting all stakeholders in the transport sector.
According to the AUATON Vice President, e-hailing drivers are not eligible for the government's free conversion initiative because they operate private businesses.
This classification has prevented them from receiving support intended for commercial drivers, highlighting a gap in the government's approach to meeting the needs of all transportation stakeholders.
He cautioned, however, that ignoring e-hailing drivers could have far-reaching economic consequences.
Their exclusion from support measures may disrupt the transport sector, potentially resulting in job losses and decreased consumer mobility, thereby affecting the overall economy.
Leave A Comment