By Muhammad Mamman
Nigeria’s deepening economic hardship is forcing many women in the nation’s capital, Abuja, to convert their private vehicles into taxis in a bid to keep their families afloat.
With the rising cost of living, soaring fuel prices and shrinking job opportunities, a growing number of women are entering the ride-hailing and informal taxi business, a sector traditionally dominated by men.
Several women who spoke to reporters said the decision was driven by the urgent need to supplement household income as the country grapples with persistent inflation and economic pressure.
“I never imagined I would use my personal car as a taxi,” said Aisha Musa, a mother of three who recently joined a ride-hailing platform in Abuja. “But food prices keep rising, school fees must be paid, and my husband’s income alone is no longer enough.”
Nigeria has witnessed a sharp increase in the cost of essential goods and services over the past year, forcing many households to explore alternative means of survival. For some women, turning their vehicles into taxis offers a flexible way to earn money while still managing family responsibilities.
Many of them operate through ride-hailing platforms, while others pick up passengers in busy districts and residential areas across the Federal Capital Territory.
However, the shift has not been without challenges. Female drivers say they often face safety concerns, long working hours and occasional discrimination from passengers who are surprised to see women behind the wheel.
Despite the obstacles, some say the job has provided a sense of financial independence.
“At first people were shocked when they entered my car and saw a woman driving,” said another driver, who asked not to be named for safety reasons. “But now many passengers say they actually feel more comfortable.”
Economic analysts say the trend reflects the broader pressure Nigerian households are facing as incomes struggle to keep pace with inflation.
For many of these women, the steering wheel has become more than just a tool for transportation – it is now a lifeline in difficult economic times.
