The Nigerian Automobile Technicians Association (NATA), Kano State Council, has expressed concern over the impact of the fuel subsidy removal on the livelihoods of its members. The association’s chairman, Yahya Ibrahim, made this known during a courtesy visit to the Chairman of the Rano Local Government Area of the state, Naziru Yau.
Ibrahim highlighted the hardship faced by auto mechanics in the state as a result of the policy. “Forty per cent of mechanics in Kano are out of business due to the fuel subsidy removal, a situation that rapidly led to the decline of patronage of motorists,” he said.
The chairman attributed the decline in business to low patronage from motorists who are struggling with the ongoing economic challenges. “The fuel subsidy removal has led to a significant decline in business for our members,” he added.
Ibrahim called on the Kano State government to intervene and provide support to help mechanics stay afloat. “We urge the state government to provide support to our members to help them overcome the challenges posed by the fuel subsidy removal,” he said.
The visit coincided with preparations for the NATA’s upcoming local government council election. Earlier, the association’s Secretary, Sani Umar, commended Governor Abba Yusuf for his commitment to establishing a mechanical village in Kano.
Yau thanked the members of the association for the visit and prayed for a successful election. “We appreciate your visit and wish you a successful election,” he said.
The fuel subsidy removal has had a devastating impact on the livelihoods of many Nigerians, including auto mechanics. The association’s plea for support from the state government is a testament to the challenges faced by its members.
As the association prepares for its upcoming election, it is clear that the fuel subsidy removal will be a major issue on the agenda. The association will be looking for ways to mitigate the impact of the policy on its members.
The Kano State government’s response to the association’s plea for support will be closely watched in the coming days.