Rising fuel prices in Abuja have pushed many civil servants to adopt survival strategies, including using their private vehicles for commercial transport to cope with growing economic hardship.
Across major routes linking satellite towns such as Mararaba, Lugbe, and Nyanya to the city centre, it has become increasingly common for workers to pick up passengers for a fee during their daily commute.
Many civil servants say the move is not driven by profit but by necessity, as fuel prices have surged to over N1,200 per litre in some parts of the country.
The Nigeria Labour Congress has raised concerns over the rising cost of living, calling for measures such as wage awards, tax relief, and cost-of-living allowances to cushion the impact on workers.
Some workers noted that sharing rides helps reduce the burden of transportation costs, even though the financial returns are minimal. Others described the practice as a form of cost-sharing rather than a business venture.
However, the trend has also raised concerns. Motorists risk harassment from transport union enforcers, while security experts warn that picking up unknown passengers could expose drivers to risks such as theft, kidnapping, and surveillance.
Security analyst Kabiru Adamu cautioned that civil servants, especially those handling sensitive information, may become vulnerable if proper safety measures are not taken.
He advised increased awareness, better regulation, and possible restrictions on informal passenger pickups to reduce security threats.
The development reflects the broader economic pressure on Nigerian workers, as rising fuel costs and inadequate public transportation continue to reshape commuting patterns in the capital city.
