By Peter Omopo
Many women in the Federal Capital Territory have turned their private vehicles into informal taxis, popularly called “kabu-kabu,” as a strategy to cope with rising living costs, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports.
The trend is increasingly visible across Abuja, with female drivers picking up passengers at major junctions and bus stops. Most of these drivers operate luxury cars, offering rides to commuters struggling with high transport fares.
Mrs. Jane Nwaogara, a driver, said the move was prompted by soaring household expenses, including school fees, rent, and food, compounded by rising petrol prices. “The economic hardship is biting hard. My salary cannot cover everything, so I need additional income. That is why I drive kabu-kabu,” she explained.
Similarly, Mrs. Blessing Okafor, a mother of three who operates along the Lugbe to Area 1 route, noted that she began conveying passengers earlier this year to manage her family’s financial needs. “Things are very difficult. School fees, feeding, and house rent cannot be handled with just one source of income,” she said, adding that many commuters also benefit from the service, especially during peak hours.
Another driver, Mrs. Habiba Moses, highlighted the connection between fuel prices and transport costs. “When fuel prices rise, fares go up. Many people can no longer afford regular taxis, so they come to us,” she said, noting that income from passenger fares helps cover household bills and fuel expenses.
Mrs. Erica Ekah added that the practice has helped ease her personal transport costs. “More female drivers in posh cars are now picking passengers. It is no longer a matter of pride; it is about survival,” she said.
Residents say the growth of informal taxi services reflects the economic pressures affecting households in the capital. Mr. Samuel Olatunde, a civil servant, said many workers rely on side businesses to supplement stagnant salaries. “Some colleagues pick up passengers after work to make extra money,” he noted.
Commuters also acknowledged benefits. Miss Ruth James, a trader, said, “Seeing neat cars stopping to pick passengers helps reduce waiting time during peak periods. Most women do this not for luxury but for survival and family support.”
Economic analysts say the trend highlights broader economic realities. Mr. Eric Eze, an economist, observed that worsening economic conditions are pushing women into traditionally male-dominated sectors to sustain households. “When wages lag behind rising living costs, informal businesses such as transport become necessary. Participation by women may continue if economic pressures persist and public transport remains inadequate,” he said.
The increasing presence of women in the informal transport sector underscores the economic challenges facing Abuja residents and the need for policies that support sustainable livelihoods.
