Female Taxi Drivers in Abuja Decry Harassment, Call for Government Support

Despite increasing acceptance of women in traditionally male-dominated professions, female taxi operators in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) continue to grapple with harassment, gender-based stereotypes, safety concerns, and financial pressures in the course of their daily operations.

In separate interviews, several female drivers told Daily Trust that they entered the commercial transport sector out of economic necessity and a genuine passion for driving. However, they noted that verbal abuse, discrimination, and the persistent perception that women are incapable of professional driving remain significant obstacles.

Peace Daniel, a commercial driver with over eight years of experience, recounted the challenges she has faced since joining the profession as a young woman.

She disclosed that some passengers have refused to board her vehicle upon discovering a woman was behind the wheel, while certain male colleagues viewed her presence as unwelcome competition.

According to her, some male drivers issued threats against her, including warnings that her vehicle would be vandalised.

“Some of the male drivers would tell me that the charm I was using would be spoiled one day and that they would deal with me. Different things happened, but I kept conquering and refused to stop,” she said.

Daniel, who identified herself as one of the pioneering members of the Federation of Female Drivers Association (FEDAN), singled out harassment by roadside touts, commonly referred to as “Agberos,” as a critical challenge requiring government intervention.

“Their matter is worse. They don’t have respect for women. They do anyhow. Even if they beg you for money and you give them, they will still harass you. They will not want you to load and will keep pursuing you,” she stated.

Beyond harassment, Daniel highlighted the rising cost of fuel as a major factor affecting drivers’ livelihoods. She explained that high fuel prices have led to increased transport fares and a corresponding decline in passenger movement.

“The fuel price is high. Because it is high, the transport fare is also high. Many people are not really going out because of that. If they can help us reduce it a little bit, I think it will help. It will even help reduce the prices of goods in the market,” she noted.

She further appealed to the government to support female drivers with vehicle acquisition, stressing that many women possess the requisite driving skills but lack the financial capacity to own cars.

Daniel revealed that she currently operates a vehicle owned by another party after her personal car developed a mechanical fault, adding that she remits daily returns to the owner.

“Like me, I’m driving for somebody presently because mine had an issue. I have no choice but to do it instead of sitting down. God is helping me; each day I come out, God gives me my daily bread,” she said.

Augustina Okafor, who operates along the Kuje axis, said she ventured into commercial driving after struggling to secure stable employment.

“Driving has helped me provide for my family, but many people are still surprised to see a woman behind the wheel. Some passengers doubt my ability before the trip even begins, while others become uncomfortable simply because I am female,” she explained.

Okafor disclosed that her ambition is to become a major player in the transport sector within the next five years, with plans to establish her own transport company.

Similarly, Esther Nwabulo Eze, who plies the Dutse area, identified safety as a primary concern for female drivers.

“There are places I avoid, especially at night. We constantly have to think about our safety because you cannot always predict the intentions of passengers,” she said.

The drivers called on transport authorities and security agencies to strengthen measures that guarantee the safety of all drivers, regardless of gender. They also urged the public to accord female drivers the same respect extended to their male counterparts.

Industry stakeholders observed that the growing number of women joining taxi and ride-hailing services reflects shifting social and economic realities, noting that many women now regard commercial driving as a viable income source.

They, however, emphasised the need for enhanced security, sustained public awareness campaigns, and policy frameworks that create a safer and more supportive working environment for women in the transport sector.