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Open Free AccountAn emerging trend in Nigeria’s capital city is drawing attention as more women are reportedly turning their private vehicles into informal taxis in order to cope with the rising cost of living.
Zilla Naija gathered that several women across the Federal Capital Territory have begun using their personal cars to pick up passengers for money, a practice commonly known in the city as “kabu-kabu.”
The development has become increasingly noticeable in recent months, particularly at busy bus stops, junctions and major roads across Abuja, where commuters often struggle to find affordable transportation.
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Publish NowMany of the women involved in the informal transport service say the decision was driven largely by economic pressures and the need to support their families amid rising expenses.
According to reports monitored by Zilla Naija, some of the drivers explained that the increasing pump price of petrol and the general cost of living have made it difficult for households to rely on a single source of income.
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One of the drivers, identified as Mrs. Jane Nwaogara, explained that the financial burden of running a household has continued to grow, forcing many people to look for alternative ways to earn extra money.
She noted that everyday expenses such as children’s school fees, food, rent, and medical bills have placed significant pressure on family budgets.
“The economic hardship is affecting many families,” she reportedly said, adding that her salary alone is no longer enough to cover all her responsibilities.
According to her, using her car to convey passengers during certain hours has become one of the few practical ways to generate additional income.
Another driver, Mrs. Blessing Okafor, who reportedly operates along the Lugbe to Area 1 route, said she began transporting passengers earlier this year after noticing that many commuters were struggling to find affordable transportation during rush hours.
She explained that she usually parks around busy junctions during the morning and evening periods when workers and residents are trying to move around the city.
Okafor added that many passengers initially express surprise when they see a woman operating a kabu-kabu service, especially when the vehicle is a private car rather than a commercial taxi.
However, she said the decision is largely about supporting her household and ensuring her family’s needs are met.
Similarly, another driver, Mrs. Habiba Moses, explained that the rising cost of fuel has had a direct impact on transportation across the city.
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According to her, whenever petrol prices increase, transportation fares also go up, making it difficult for some residents to rely on regular taxi services.
She said many commuters now prefer entering private cars offering rides because they can sometimes negotiate more affordable fares.
Moses added that the extra income she earns from transporting passengers helps her cover everyday expenses such as fuel, electricity bills, and other family needs.
The growing presence of these informal female drivers has sparked conversations among residents about the changing economic realities in the country, as more people seek alternative ways to supplement their income.
Observers say the trend also highlights how many families are adjusting their daily routines in order to cope with the current economic situation.
As the development continues to unfold across the city, more commuters appear to be embracing the service, especially during peak traffic hours when transportation options are limited.
Zilla Naija will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more residents share their experiences with the growing kabu-kabu trend in Abuja.
