The Taraba State chapter of the National Association of Road Transport Owners, NARTO, has raised concerns over the severe impact of Nigeria’s dwindling economy and soaring living costs on the transportation industry nationwide.
Speaking to journalists on Friday at the NARTO office located in Jalingo, the state capital, the state chairman of the association, Alhaji Hamman Adama Tukur, highlighted the challenges faced by transport owners, particularly in the procurement of diesel, a critical component for their operations.
“Tremendous challenges confront transport owners in our country, especially in procuring diesel. Our trucks rely on diesel to operate, and the current cost per litre stands at One Thousand, Seven Hundred and Fifty Naira (N1,750.00),” Tukur stated.
He emphasized that despite efforts to sustain operations, transport owners are struggling to turn a profit due to the exorbitant costs.
Tukur urged the Federal Government to take action to alleviate the burden by reducing the price of diesel, to ensure the sustainability of their businesses.
Addressing concerns over insecurity, the NARTO chairman revealed that the association has instructed drivers to avoid night-time journeys, instead encouraging them to park in nearby towns and resume travel at daybreak.
He further called on the government to deploy security personnel to highways to curb crimes and ensure road safety.
In a separate development, Tukur commended Governor Agba Kefas for the construction of a multi-million naira trailer park in the Pantinapu area of the state.
Hre expressed gratitude for the project, which according to him, will serve as a vital facility for trailer and truck operators in the state.
“Governor Kefas has demonstrated exemplary leadership in tackling insecurity by distributing vehicles and motorcycles to security agencies across the state. In recognition of his efforts, NARTO members have unanimously appointed him as our patron,” Tukur declared.
NARTO voices concerns as Taraba transport sector struggles amid economic downturn