Amidst the escalating economic downturn, many Nigerians struggling against mounting inflation, skyrocketing fuel costs, and growing joblessness are resorting to unconventional means for survival. They are taking to the roads with their high-end cars, converting them into cabs to generate immediate income. In this piece, CHIJIOKE IREMEKA delves into how these mobile side gigs have turned into essential strategies for enduring tough everyday circumstances.
At
about 4:21 pm on a Thursday, when Eunice Ajulo stepped out of an event centre on the Island, she anticipated the usual chaos that defines transportation in the city—yellow buses weaving through traffic, loud conductors shouting destinations, and impatient okada riders weaving dangerously between vehicles.
Instead, as the young lady stood just metres away from the Ikoyi under-bridge at Falomo, she watched sleek, luxury cars pull up briefly to pick up passengers before speeding off.
Initially, she thought these might be personal cars used as taxis or maybe kind-hearted residents from Lagos providing complimentary lifts. However, the steady flow of automobiles stopping regularly, the relaxed manner in which fares were discussed, along with the conspicuous lack of usual public transport buses, piqued her interest.
“I stood there for almost 40 minutes waiting for a danfo or keke, but none came. I began to wonder what was happening and eventually asked someone nearby,” she recalled.
“The man simply chuckled and replied, ‘Aunty, all those vehicles you see? They have turned into buses now. People use them to earn money.’ I was astonished,” Ajulo shared.
Finally, the lady in her late twenties hesitantly agreed to take a ride from Ikoyi to Berger via the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, traveling in a Sports Utility Vehicle – specifically a Honda Pilot.
A curious Ajulo opted to sit in the front with the driver and began asking a barrage of questions.
“She mentioned that the driver’s name was John. She described him as a well-groomed, self-assured university graduate around 30 years old. He had majored in Business Administration from Ekiti State University located in Ado-Ekiti and currently earns his living as an independent marketing consultant for a firm based in Ikoyi.”
He mentioned that he picks up passengers during his commute to offset the cost of fuel. He explained that the fares we pay help cover these expenses.
Ajulo acknowledged that the price was more than her usual payment for a danfo, however, the convenience of a direct journey and functioning air conditioning justified the extra cost.
It was an incredibly comfortable trip with Berger that I wouldn’t mind traveling with him again,” she stated. “After dropping me off, he did a U-turn beneath the bridge. Then, I caught another bus to reach my ultimate stop in Magboro.
Sunday PUNCH
discovered that John belongs to an increasing group known as “executive hustlers” — white-collar workers who work extra jobs as drivers, couriers, or deliverers in a frantic attempt to boost their earnings.
In contrast to conventional taxi drivers, numerous part-time transportation providers do not align themselves with ride-sharing services such as Bolt or Uber. These independent operators choose high-traffic spots like congested intersections, bridges, and venues frequently overlooked by public transit systems, thus generating a need for personal ride options in those areas.
Luxury vehicles as survival kits
When Dominion Idonijie bought his used Toyota Corolla in 2015, it symbolised progress and a reward for years of hard work.
Paradoxically, that very automobile has turned into his essential means of mobility.
A skilled technician and father of four children, he previously made a reasonable living with a standard 9-to-5 position at a technology company located in Victoria Island. However, as prices rose dramatically and his wages stayed the same, he faced the stark challenges posed by Nigeria’s difficult economic climate.
“He sighed heavily as he recounted how quickly things spiraled downward. His rent was overdue, grocery costs skyrocketed, and he lacked additional sources of income. Each day, he was using up his fuel reserves just to make it to his job. He realized that unless changes were made soon, he would be overwhelmed,” he lamented despondently.
The transformation was brought about through a side gig—converting his vehicle into an impromptu cab.
Initially, I found it uncomfortable to reach out for help. I constantly worried about how others might perceive me. However, I realized I needed to set aside my ego—the circumstances in Nigeria have surpassed concerns over public opinion. Now, it’s all about survival,” he confessed.
Idonijie started transporting people during his regular journey to work.
“I transport individuals from Berger to the Island in the morning and then make the reverse journey in the evening. I only pick up passengers who are going my way, which makes it less hectic,” he clarified.
I charge 2,000 naira per person. With three people seated at the back and one up front, that totals 8,000 naira. Typically, my daily earnings range from 18,000 to 20,000 naira.
In over 20 working days, this sums up to approximately N400,000 per month—the amount he mentioned foregoing by providing free rides.
“This is the cash I once squandered back when I was living large, helping others out of sheer kindness,” he remarked with a laugh.
Given how successful this has been, I recognized that I could make additional income by working on weekends. Consequently, during peak times, particularly in the evening when bus stops are packed and freight trucks are few, I venture out to transport passengers. It’s challenging, yet it’s what’s sustaining my family.
Idonijie said he charges N500 for trips from Magboro in Ogun State to Berger and the Secretariat bus stops.
He added that a trip to the 7Up bus stop costs N700, while Iyana Oworo goes for N1,000. From Iyana Oworo to Obalende or SMC, he charges between N400 and N500.
Still, the hustle comes at a cost.
Maintaining a vehicle comes at a high cost. Fuel prices continue to climb, and the condition of the roads isn’t great either. Nonetheless, I harbor no second thoughts. If not for this endeavor, I’m unsure how things would stand now. In an ideal world, nobody should have to use their private car as a cab merely to provide for their loved ones; however, that’s the stark reality we face. While far from perfect, it has become essential.
Once personal cars become business tools
Driven not by aspiration, but by need, a growing number of white-collar workers, referred to as ‘executive hustlers,’ are taking up secondary jobs as unofficial drivers and logistics providers.
In contrast to conventional taxi services, these operate autonomously without affiliating with ride-hailing companies such as Bolt or Uber. Instead, they attract customers by picking up passengers at bustling intersections and bus stations.
This trend highlights a somber nationwide situation: rising inflation, increasing fuel prices, and decreasing employment prospects.
When fuel subsidies were eliminated in Nigeria, there was a sudden increase in fuel costs, leading to higher transportation fees and the price of basic necessities. This rise led to soaring inflation, making everyday items more expensive. The most affected group during these changes were families with lower incomes.
A recent World Bank study highlighted the gravity of the situation, pointing out that numerous Nigerians are grappling with everyday financial struggles and deteriorating quality of life due to the lack of salary modifications or substantial social assistance.
It is believed that more than 60 percent of Nigerians are experiencing financial hardship, as both unemployment and underemployment continue to increase.
The report noted that for numerous individuals, transforming their private cars into commercial transports emerged as an essential tactic for survival.
The National Bureau of Statistics has stated that more than 80 percent of jobs in Nigeria are now part of the informal sector, with transportation and logistics being some of the quickest-expanding areas within this category. The same organization noted that consumer prices increased to an annual rate of 24.23 percent in March 2025, marking an increase from 23.18 percent observed in February.
As the Consumer Price Index rose to 117.34, this indicated a monthly increase of 4.40 points.
Dr. Vincent Ezeme, an economics professor at Legacy University in Okija, Anambra State, stated that the increase in privately owned vehicles being converted into commercial shuttles is primarily due to soaring inflation, escalating fuel prices, and decreasing employment prospects. He observed that even individuals from the middle class in Lagos are reconsidering their income-generating strategies.
“The elimination of fuel subsidies, inconsistent power supply, and rising living expenses have compelled numerous salaried employees to find innovative solutions out of necessity,” he stated.
Ezeme noted that automobiles, formerly emblems of prestige, have become essential for survival. “Unless inflation is curbed and stable employment opportunities are generated, additional Nigerians will likely join the informal economy. Currently, people are just focusing on earning enough each day through individual rides.”
Stuck in an intensifying financial crisis
As part of a connected progression, Mr. Basil Agwude, a Senior Executive Officer at a global company based on Lagos Island, recounted how Nigeria’s deteriorating economic situation compelled him into uncharted waters.
Once known for cruising through Lagos in his luxury car, windows up, air conditioning on, soft music playing, Agwude now ferries passengers to make ends meet and support his young family.
He remembered enjoying a comfortable life with a reasonable income before the economy declined. Following the elimination of fuel subsidies, gasoline prices skyrocketed, significantly impacting his way of living.
“I used to put N14,800 or N15,000 worth of fuel into my tank effortlessly before President Bola Tinubu eliminated the subsidy,” he explained. “But all at once, I found myself paying more than N150,000 monthly for gasoline. That makes you wonder about your income.”
He went on, “This is merely gas money. I haven’t touched upon expenses like food, tuition fees, or other duties yet. As bills accumulated, I was left with no option but to transform my vehicle from an obligation into a revenue stream. This is simply a means of getting by until circumstances improve.”
Now, Agwude transports commuters during his daily journey from Kilo in Surulere to Tafawa Balewa Square on Lagos Island, near his workplace. He charges N1,000 for each person every morning and evening.
These days, many car owners are engaging in this activity, including senior employees,” he noted. “This behavior has grown increasingly prevalent, particularly amongst middle-class professionals who remain employed yet find themselves hard-pressed to manage the rising costs of daily life. Initially conceived as an urgent strategy for conserving fuel, it has since transformed into a routine supplementary income source.
Members of the military are not exempt from this.
At the Oshodi transit point, a lady serving as an officer in the navy was seen inside her 2011 Toyota Sienna, stationed on the service road with the motor still running, ready to transport people going towards Bucknor and Isheri Osun.
The officer, who chose to remain anonymous to evade potential punishment, mentioned that she charges ₦700 for rides to Bucknor and ₦800 for journeys to Isheri Osun.
There’s usually traffic on the road, and I frequently waste fuel while sitting idle. Therefore, picking up one or two passengers allows me to offset the cost of fuel,” she said. “Traveling to Isheri through Oke-Afa can be quite tiring.
Josephine Mba, a commuter unable to get onboard because of the space constraints, mentioned that the price was lower compared to what commercial bus operators typically ask for. “At peak times, these drivers can charge up to N1,000 or N900 for journeys which usually cost around N700 or N800. Besides the pricing, riding in personal vehicles feels more pleasant—unless you encounter those driven by people who cram two travelers into seats designed for just one.”
Lifeline for working class
At Oshodi, Mr. Friday Akpan, an additional individual owning a personal vehicle, recounted how he boosts his earnings. Living in Charity, Oshodi, and employed at a construction firm in Ajah, Lagos, Akpan mentioned that even though he has a steady position, his paycheck does not suffice for meeting all of his monthly costs.
It doesn’t make sense for me to go to Ajah alone when I could pick up some passengers along the way and earn extra money,” he said. “By providing more affordable transportation options, instead of ending up with nothing, I manage to get at least a little.
He charges between 1,500 and 1,800 naira for rides from Oshodi (past Charity) to Lekki-Ajah. “At the official station, they ask for 2,000 naira during non-busy times, and often higher,” he noted. For journeys from Ajah to Oworo, the fare is 2,500 naira.
For Akpan, additional earnings help sustain his family. “Even 10,000 naira makes a difference. By using my income from this job for fuel, the money saved can be directed towards another necessity.”
He went on, “The reality is, relying solely on your salary here makes life incredibly challenging. With the current minimum wage at N70,000, what can one really afford? Prices for everything are sky-high. A sack of rice costs more than N90,000; tuition fees are exorbitant, not to mention medical expenses—let’s avoid discussing those altogether. It’s an all-consuming battle.”
Akpan concluded, “Using my car to carry passengers has been a lifesaver. I would advise other car owners to do the same if they can. Instead of driving long distances alone, let the vehicle generate some income.”
Bankers not spared
Abiodun Balogun, a banker residing in Satellite Town, Lagos, has been compelled by harsh economic conditions to find additional ways to make ends meet. To navigate through the challenging traffic and ensure punctuality for his job, he departs home as early as 5:30 a.m., picking up riders en route to boost his shrinking earnings.
Balogun mentioned that he currently participates in organized carpooling, regularly ferrying the same group of passengers who each contribute N1,500 for every journey. He noted that this setup is advantageous for both parties involved and runs smoothly.
I have daily commuters who travel with me regularly. Each morning we sync our schedules via a phone call, and those who can’t join inform me beforehand,” he explained. “Additionally, we use a WhatsApp group for smoother communication. This method ensures better security and maintains an efficient workflow.
All of his passengers, he noted, work on the Marina axis of Lagos Island and have their own vehicles but prefer to leave them at home to reduce costs and stress. Balogun added that the fees he collects mainly help offset the cost of fuelling his car in an economy where petrol prices are unforgiving.
“We commute together in the morning and return together in the evening. I pick them up from their designated bus stops, and I’m always punctual. While I earn a bit from this, it also offers them comfort and shields them from the stress of jostling for public transport at crowded stops,” he said.
For Balogun, the arrangement is strictly limited to his work route. “Of course, their safety is guaranteed. I don’t use the car for anything else. Outside work hours, I’m not interested. I simply don’t have the time or energy for the extra stress,” he said.
Symptom, not solution
Although the emergence of private car services as taxis might appear cutting-edge, Ezeme, the political economist, cautioned that this actually highlights a more fundamental systemic issue.
“This doesn’t represent true entrepreneurship; rather, it reflects economic hardship. The fact that established professionals are leaving their career paths to take up occasional work on the streets speaks volumes about the current economic situation. If even SUV owners are struggling so much, consider the challenges faced by individuals who don’t have access to any vehicles whatsoever,” he remarked.
Present economic projection disheartening
Dr. Ifeanyi Anadozie, a political economist from Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Awka, Anambra State, expressed dismay over the fact that numerous Nigerians struggle to obtain even basic daily sustenance due to the soaring costs of living.
“The prices of various other products and services have also surged significantly over the last two years. Inflation has reached its peak, impacting everybody, with those who receive salaries being affected the most,” he stated.
Anadozie highlighted that the recent alerts from the World Bank and IMF suggesting an increase in the number of Nigerians living under the accepted poverty threshold by 2027 are profoundly concerning. He further stated that these forecasts provide little cause for optimism.
World Bank projections worrisome
Dr Lawrence Nwaodu, a development economist, stated that forecasts from the World Bank and International Monetary Fund highlight significant economic worries for Nigeria.
As he stated, “The poverty report for the nation underscores a concerning pattern, suggesting that poverty in resource-abundant and unstable nations like Nigeria could climb by 3.6 percentage points from 2022 to 2027—the sole region within Sub-Saharan Africa experiencing this kind of growth.”
He highlighted that this forecast is especially troubling considering Nigeria’s position as one of Africa’s biggest economic powers, pointing out that the nation’s inflation rates are also quite worrying.
Nwaodu stated, “Concerning inflation, the IMF predicts that Nigeria’s price increase will reach an average of 26.5 percent in 2025 and jump to 37 percent in 2026, primarily due to structural weaknesses, inadequate supply responses, and fluctuations in currency value.”
Conversely, the World Bank forecasts thatheadline inflationwill decrease to 22.1% in 2025 and then reduce further to 15.9% by 2027.
A forecast indicating that an increasing number of Nigerians will fall beneath the poverty threshold ought to be a significant worry for any accountable administration.
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
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