ONDO GOVERNMENT, QUARRY AND TRUCK OWNERS AGREE ON NEW LOADING FEE
The Ondo State Government has reached an agreement with the executive members of the Unions of Tipper and Quarry Employers of Nigeria (UTQEN); the Association of Sand Quarry Operators, Tipper Owners and Suppliers; the Laterite Suppliers and Sand and Quarry Suppliers; and the United Quarry Association on a stipulated truck loading fee in the State.
The Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Engr. (Dr.) Johnson Jaiyeola Alabi, disclosed this during a rescheduled meeting with the leadership of the unions representing tipper and quarry operators in the State, held at his office.
Engr. Alabi recalled that the State Government had earlier directed the unions to suspend the proposed increase in truck loading fees to enable their leadership to consult with their members and arrive at a reasonable benchmark for loading activities.
He stated that, following consultations with relevant stakeholders, the State Government proposed a loading fee of Two Hundred and Twenty Thousand Naira (₦220,000.00) per trip, which he described as fair and reasonable, as against the initially proposed Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira (₦250,000.00).
According to the Commissioner, the agreed rate was arrived at in consideration of the need to balance the interests of operators with the economic realities faced by citizens, particularly the need to promote ease of livelihood and reduce additional financial burdens on the people.
He explained that extensive consultations had been undertaken with relevant stakeholders to ensure fairness and balance in arriving at the agreed rate.
Engr. Alabi expressed appreciation to the union executives for their prompt response and commitment to comply with the agreed rate. He urged them to sustain the agreement and ensure strict compliance, noting that continued cooperation would enable the Ministry to make a strong case to the Governor on matters affecting the unions and facilitate timely consideration of their requests.
In his remarks, the President of UTQEN, Alhaji Taiwo Odetola, speaking on behalf of the union members, expressed the commitment of the associations to maintaining peace, order and mutual understanding in the State.
Alhaji Odetola explained that the proposed increase was largely prompted by the significant rise in the cost of diesel and other operational expenses. However, following the intervention of the State Government and further consultations, he assured the Commissioner that the unions would comply with the agreed rate.
The agreement underscores the commitment of the administration of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa to promoting ease of doing business, economic stability and improved livelihood for the people of Ondo State, while ensuring that the interests of operators and citizens are fairly balanced.
According to a statement signed by the Media Officer in the ministry, Debbie Funmilayo, present at the meeting were the Special Assistant to the Special Adviser to the Governor on Union Matters and Special Duties, Mr. Olalekan Ogundayisi; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, Mr. Wole Akinkuotu; Director of Mineral Resources, Mr. Abiodun Jones; Deputy Director, Mineral Resources, Engr. Bidemi Oladapo; consultants; and other members of the union executives.
