Economic Pressure Drives Abuja Women to Turn Private Cars Into Informal Taxis

Growing economic hardship is pushing many women in Abuja, the nation’s capital, to convert their private vehicles into informal taxis, popularly known as “kabu-kabu,” as they search for ways to supplement their income.

Several female drivers who spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) said the decision was largely influenced by the rising cost of living and increasing petrol prices.

Across major junctions and bus stops in the Federal Capital Territory, more women can now be seen stopping to pick up passengers heading to different parts of the city. Many of them use their personal vehicles—some of which are luxury cars—to transport commuters during peak hours.

One of the drivers, Jane Nwaogara, said the worsening economic situation has forced many families to look for additional sources of income.

According to her, the rising cost of petrol and household expenses such as rent, school fees, food, and medical bills have made it difficult to survive on a single salary.

“The economic hardship is biting hard. My salary alone cannot cover all the bills I have to pay, including my children’s school fees and feeding. With the high petrol price, I decided to start carrying passengers so I can earn extra income,” she explained.

Another driver, Blessing Okafor, a mother of three who operates along the Lugbe to Area 1 route, said she began the side business earlier this year when she realised that many commuters were struggling to find affordable transport.

She said she usually positions her car at busy junctions during the morning and evening rush hours.

“Sometimes people are surprised to see a woman driving kabu-kabu, but it is the only way I can support my family and cope with the rising expenses,” she said.

Habiba Moses, another driver, also attributed the trend to the rising cost of fuel and the general increase in the cost of living. According to her, transporting passengers helps her cover daily needs such as fuel purchases and household bills.

Similarly, Erica Ekah said that since she started conveying passengers on her daily commute, she no longer struggles to buy fuel.

She noted that the number of female drivers offering informal taxi services in the city has grown significantly in recent months.

“More women with good cars are now stopping at major junctions to pick passengers. People are really struggling, and many are simply looking for ways to survive,” she said.

Some residents who use the service say the increasing number of private vehicles offering rides reflects the level of financial pressure on households in the capital.

A civil servant, Samuel Olatunde, said many workers now engage in side businesses to survive.

“My salary alone cannot take care of all my expenses. Some of my colleagues also carry passengers after work just to make extra money,” he said.

However, some commuters say the presence of these informal taxis has helped reduce waiting time for transport, particularly during rush hours.

Ruth James, a trader, said many of the drivers she encounters are women who are simply trying to support their families.

“They are not doing it for luxury; they are doing it for survival. The economy is affecting everyone,” she said.

Economic analysts say the growing involvement of women in informal transport services reflects broader economic realities in the country.

An economist, Eric Eze, explained that many households are increasingly turning to the informal sector because wages have not kept pace with the rising cost of living.

“When income remains stagnant while prices continue to rise, people naturally seek alternative ways to earn money. Women are now entering sectors traditionally dominated by men to help stabilise household income,” he said.

He added that the expansion of informal taxi services could continue if economic conditions remain difficult and public transportation systems fail to meet the needs of residents.