Economic Struggles Prompt FCT Women to Turn Private Cars into Taxis

Many women in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have found themselves converting their personal vehicles into informal taxis, commonly referred to as "kabu-kabu," as a means to supplement their income.

A number of female drivers shared their stories with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja, explaining that this shift has been spurred by the difficult economic circumstances.

NAN notes that this trend is increasingly noticeable, with more women now seen at key junctions and bus stops throughout the city, ready to pick up passengers.

It has become common for private car owners, particularly women driving luxury vehicles, to offer rides to commuters heading in various directions across Abuja.

One driver, Mrs. Jane Nwaogara, explained that rising transportation expenses, largely due to the increase in petrol prices, are pushing many to seek additional income.

Nwaogara highlighted the growing burden of household expenses—including school fees, rent, and food—that necessitates finding alternative sources of revenue.

"The economic hardship is severe. I have numerous bills to settle, including my children's educational costs, food, utilities, and medical expenses," she expressed.

"With the rising cost of fuel, my salary is insufficient to cover it all, which is why I have turned to the kabu-kabu business for extra income," she added.

Another participant, Mrs. Blessing Okafor, who transports passengers on the Lugbe to Area 1 route, began providing rides earlier in the year as a strategy to manage her mounting household costs.

"It’s exceedingly difficult nowadays. Child education fees, feeding, and housing rent are overwhelming with just one income source," she remarked.

Okafor shared that her decision to use her car for passenger transport came after noticing the struggle many commuters faced in finding affordable transit options.

"I usually station myself at the junction during peak hours. Some people are surprised to see a woman driving a kabu-kabu, but it’s essential for supporting my family," she said.

Similarly, Mrs. Habiba Moses pointed out that the surge in fuel prices and the rising cost of living have compelled numerous households to explore other income-generating avenues.

"When fuel prices increase, transport fares do too. Many individuals can’t afford the regular taxis anymore, prompting them to choose our vehicles instead," she noted.

According to Moses, the income generated from carrying passengers is crucial in helping her afford fuel, pay bills, and meet her family's needs.

Mrs. Erica Ekah stated that since she started transporting passengers to and from work, fuel costs are no longer a burden for her.

Ekah observed, "I’ve recently noticed an influx of female drivers, often in their luxurious cars, beginning to park at major junctions to pick up passengers as well.

"People are truly struggling these days; the economy affects everyone, and no one feels embarrassed anymore. We are all seeking various ways to survive," she declared.

Ekah emphasized the critical role of transportation in economic development and urged government action to enhance public transport systems for the benefit of citizens.

Residents utilizing these services indicated that the increase in private cars operating as taxis is indicative of the significant economic pressures that households in the capital face.

Mr. Samuel Olatunde, a civil servant, mentioned that many employees have started relying on side hustles for survival.

"My salary alone can’t meet my expenses, and I believe that applies to many others as well. Some of my colleagues pick up passengers after their office hours to earn extra money," Olatunde stated.

He further noted that many private vehicles seen around bustling junctions during peak hours belong to workers striving to boost their income.

Some commuters have pointed out that the proliferation of private vehicles offering rides has notably decreased waiting times for transportation, especially during congested periods.

Miss Ruth James, a trader, commented, "I often see individuals with well- maintained cars stopping to pick up passengers. Many of them are women simply looking to make some extra income.

"I believe the motivation for a lot of them is pure survival; they are not doing this for luxury but out of economic necessity to support their families," she added.

Economic analysts suggest that the increasing involvement of women in informal transport reflects a wider economic trend.

An economist, Mr. Eric Eze, noted that the deteriorating economic situation in Nigeria is driving more women into traditionally male-dominated sectors to earn a living.

Eze remarked that numerous households are turning to the informal sector as official wages have not kept pace with the rising cost of living.

"When income levels remain stagnant while prices and living costs continue to escalate, it is only natural for people to seek alternative financial opportunities," he explained.

"Women, in particular, are increasingly entering transport and other informal sectors to ensure household stability.

"The proliferation of informal taxi services is likely to keep growing if economic stresses persist and public transport systems continue to fall short," he concluded. (NAN)