Nigerian trade and labour unions representing agricultural producers, market traders, haulage operators and interstate transport workers have called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to establish a national highway taskforce to tackle illegal checkpoints, multiple taxation and insecurity on federal roads.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the unions, led by their national president, Osigbemeh Emmanuel, and Sunday Olawoyin, said the growing presence of illegal checkpoints and unlawful levies continues to hinder the movement of goods and services across the country.

According to the unions, the challenges have increased transportation costs, disrupted interstate commerce and contributed to rising inflation by driving up the prices of goods.

While commending some of the reforms introduced by the Tinubu administration, they urged the Federal Government to take further steps to improve the ease of doing business, strengthen road safety, protect legitimate businesses and ensure smoother interstate transportation.

The unions said the proposed taskforce would help eliminate illegal practices on federal highways and improve the free movement of goods nationwide.

They also appealed to the Presidency to direct state governments, security agencies and revenue authorities to fully cooperate with the proposed taskforce in enforcing Presidential Order No. 001 and other Federal Government policies aimed at promoting seamless interstate trade.

The unions reaffirmed their commitment to supporting government initiatives that enhance interstate commerce and create a more business-friendly environment across Nigeria.