Global Truck Driver Shortage Report 2024: A Golden Opportunity for Nigerian Drivers
The International Road Transport Union (IRU) has sounded the alarm that the global truck driver shortage is intensifying, with over 3 million positions currently unfilled across 36 countries. Projections indicate this number could more than double to 7 million by 2028 if decisive actions aren’t taken.
A Worldwide Crisis
The shortage is not confined to a single region:
- China: Faces the most significant deficit, with an anticipated 4.9 million unfilled positions by 2028, representing 20% of its total truck driver workforce.
- Europe: Currently short by 233,000 drivers, with projections reaching 745,000 (17% of positions) by 2028.
- Turkey: Expected to have a shortage of 200,000 drivers, equating to 28% of its required workforce.
- United States: The American Trucking Associations report a current shortage of 80,000 drivers, potentially doubling to 160,000 by 2028.
- India: Experiencing a shortage of 200,000 drivers, with expectations to reach 300,000 by 2025.
- Nigeria: Currently facing a shortage of 30,000 truck drivers.
Demographic Challenges
A significant factor contributing to the shortage is the aging driver population:
- Less than 12% of truck drivers globally are under 25 years old.
- In Europe, only 5% of drivers are under 25, while one-third are over 55.
- The representation of women in the profession remains low, with only 6% globally; the U.S. has the highest at 8%.
Barriers to Entry
Several obstacles deter potential entrants:
- Age Restrictions: The minimum driving age for international freight transport is between 21 and 22 in many countries.
- Training Costs: In France, obtaining a truck driver’s license and Certificate of Professional Competence costs approximately €5,250, over three times the minimum monthly wage.
Opportunities for Nigerian Drivers
Given the global demand, Nigerian drivers have a unique opportunity:
- Youthful Demographics: Nigeria’s young population can fill the age gap in the trucking industry.
- Training Initiatives: Training Academy like Truckademy can equip Nigerians with the necessary skills and certifications.
- International Demand: Countries facing shortages may look to recruit drivers from nations like Nigeria.
Conclusion
The global truck driver shortage presents a significant opportunity for Nigerians to gain employment both domestically and internationally. By investing in training and certification, Nigerian drivers can position themselves to meet this growing demand, benefiting both themselves and the global supply chain.
Sources:
https://trans.info/en/truck-driver-shortage-372189?utm_source=chatgpt.com
https://worldmetrics.org/truck-driver-shortage-statistics/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
https://www.heavyliftpfi.com/sectors/global-truck-driver-shortage-to-double-in-next-five-years/30110.article/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
https://polandinsight.com/the-driver-deficit-in-europe-could-reach-745-thousand-vacancies-95420/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
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