By Juliet Umeh

While many Nigerians are seeking opportunities abroad, a growing number of women are discovering success through e-hailing like Uber driving as a lucrative career path within their own country.

Traditionally considered a male-dominated space, these women have embraced the gig economy, using Uber to take control of their financial futures and challenge societal expectations.

For these drivers, Uber is not just a job—it’s an opportunity to rewrite the rules, proving that there are no limits to what women can achieve, even in industries historically dominated by men.

From banking to Uber: Favour’s bold move

Favour Abasi-Akan, once a banker, now finds herself thriving behind the wheel as an Uber driver. Dissatisfied with the lopsided remuneration practices in the banking sector, she made a life-changing decision that has led her to a fulfilling and lucrative new career.

“I was a contract staff member at a bank, earning N80, 000 per month, but my workload was the same as full staff who were paid much better. After years of frustration, I left banking. I loved driving, so I turned to Uber,” Favour shares.

Today, she pays over N400, 000 monthly-more than five times her former salary. Her success is a testament to what can be achieved with determination and hard work, even in a male-dominated field.

 “This is my full-time job now. I work hard, just as I did in the bank, but the difference is that here, I get compensated for my efforts. In one week, I can make around N380, 000, and after expenses, I pay myself N400, 000 monthly. I treat it like my business, and it’s been a good one.”

While the journey hasn’t been without its challenges, Favour’s ability to manage her time and earnings makes it worthwhile. She has not only defied societal norms but has carved out a space for herself in an industry where men have typically dominated.

Driving for Uber in Nigeria is not without its challenges. Favour recounts how rude and dismissive some passengers can be, especially when they realize they’re being driven by a woman.

“Some Nigerians don’t respect service providers. I’ve had passengers come into the car with bad energy, but I’ve learned to turn things around. My positive attitude leaves them smiling by the end of the ride.”

Despite such hurdles, Favour remains focused on the bigger picture.  Favour’s success is mirrored by other women embracing Uber as a career path.

Mrs. Ebele Onwurah, another full-time Uber driver, emphasizes the freedom and financial security that comes with the job.

Onwurah said: “It’s an on-the-go job for anyone who loves driving; even as each ride puts money in your pocket. On a good day, I make about N10, 000, and that’s more than what some offices pay in a month if you split it per day. Plus, I have time to balance work and family life.”

While Lagos’s notorious traffic and difficult passengers can be frustrating, Onwurah manages to work fewer hours now that she owns her car. She’s found the perfect balance between work and personal life, earning enough to support her family while enjoying greater control over her schedule.

Overcoming fear and insecurity

Security is a primary concern for many Uber drivers, but Amaka Ikokwu, known as the “Celebrity Uber Driver,” doesn’t let fear hold her back. With over three years of driving experience, she’s developed a no-nonsense attitude towards the risks: “The only thing you should fear in life is not having money. Bad things happen during the day and night, so just go out and work. Uber’s tracking system is solid, so as long as you stick to the rules, you’re safe.”

Amaka’s work ethic is impressive; she maximizes her earnings by ensuring she completes a full 12-hour shift each time she clocks in. Even with the challenges of fuel price hikes, she praises Uber’s incentives for hardworking drivers, which help her manage expenses and stay ahead financially.

As with many businesses, Uber drivers have faced rising costs due to fuel hikes. However, the company has introduced incentives to help drivers weather the storm.

Ikokwu explains how these incentives help: “Uber gives us bonuses that cover our fuel costs. If you complete a certain number of trips, you get extra money. I make sure to meet those targets because it helps balance my expenses.”

Financial freedom through Uber

For Omolara Babatola, another Uber driver, the platform has opened doors to financial independence.

A former businesswoman, Babatola joined Uber less than a year ago but is already seeing the benefits of her new career.

“Uber is more lucrative than my previous business. I do 17-18 trips a day, and the earnings have been worth it. I enjoy meeting new people and even build friendships with some of my passengers.”

Babatola has successfully blended Uber with her other ventures, ensuring she stays productive with multiple income streams.

Her success demonstrates the flexibility Uber offers, allowing her to pursue different passions while securing her financial future.

Reshaping the future for women in Nigeria’s economy

The stories of these women prove that they can thrive in industries historically dominated by men, challenging societal norms and forging paths to financial independence. By taking charge of their careers and embracing the gig economy, they are reshaping expectations and proving that no job is too tough for them.

These women are not just drivers; they are entrepreneurs, mothers, and leaders, breaking barriers and proving that success knows no gender.