Road Transport Employers’ Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) has urged the Federal Government to establish a Transport Bank that would give interest-free or friendly loans to members.
The association’s National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Abdul Rahman Olalekan Amusan, who made the call, said the bank would cater for the welfare of the transport workers.
He said the proposal had been passed to the National Assembly by the union led by their National President Ambassador Musa Mohammed Maitakobi.
According to Amusan, who also doubles as the Publicity Secretary, Lagos Council, these proposals, when implemented, would strengthen the road transport sector, which he described as the second highest employer after government.
“Our National President has made this request to the National Assembly and the Federal Government. If establish, it will go along and cater for the welfare of our members ,most especially during this economic challenges, ” he said.
On other challenges, Amusan said insecurity had been the major challenge.
He said the insecurity has reduce the number of people travelling by road due to the fear of attack.
“This is a very big challenge and we, in the transport sector, are the worst hit because of the attack from the bandits.
“We are hoping the Federal Government will addressed this issue as soon as possible.
“We have other challenges such as the increase in the forex and interest rate. This has jerked up the cost of our spare parts and even the vehicles, because they are imported,” he said.
Amusan said there were other challenges such as the outcome and the effects of the COVID-19 and the downturn.