The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, recently shed light on an important issue: Nigerian youths often reject taxi driving jobs at home but willingly take up similar jobs abroad. During the FCT Renewed Hope Youth Empowerment Programme in Abuja, Wike encouraged young people to see taxi driving as a dignified and steady means of making a living.
At the event, Wike handed over 80 new cars to young beneficiaries, giving them a chance to work as taxi drivers in Abuja. These cars were provided free of charge by the government as part of an effort to empower youths, reduce unemployment, and improve the city’s transport services.
Wike pointed out that many Nigerians who avoid taxi driving in their own country are more open to it when they live abroad. “We all know people who are proud that their family members are working as taxi drivers in London, Houston, or Paris. These relatives support their families and pay their taxes through these jobs. Why shouldn’t Nigerian youths value the same work here at home?” Wike remarked.
He encouraged the beneficiaries not to feel ashamed about becoming taxi drivers. Instead, he explained that it’s an honest job that offers income stability and a chance to contribute positively to society. He believes that taxi driving should be viewed as a respectable profession in Nigeria, helping families and contributing to the local economy.
As part of efforts to make public transport safer, Wike also announced that starting January 2025, only registered commercial buses and taxis will be allowed to operate in Abuja. Each driver must undergo a security profile check to ensure the safety of passengers. This step is intended to reduce cases of robbery and kidnapping, which have occasionally been linked to unauthorized commercial vehicles.
Wike explained that all approved commercial vehicles will carry Abuja’s official color and will be closely monitored. This way, passengers can feel more secure, knowing that every licensed vehicle on the road has been properly checked and registered.
By encouraging Nigerian youth to take up taxi driving locally, Wike hopes to reduce unemployment, improve city transportation, and give people a safe and dependable way to travel around Abuja.
