My Preferred Mode of Transportation as a Nigerian Lady

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When it comes to transportation in Nigeria, it's not always about preference,it’s about what is available, affordable, and sometimes, what won’t stress your life too much. But if I’m to speak from experience and what I personally prefer, I would say I like using ride hailing services like Bolt or Uber, and if that one no work, I manage public transport like keke, danfo, or okada, depending on where I'm going.

Let me explain why.

I live in a city where traffic can be frustrating, and public transport is sometimes like a survival game. You will be hanging inside bus with five people on a row meant for three. Then the conductor will still be shouting “Oshodi! Yaba! Last seat! Enter with your change o!” Sometimes, the bus itself will be making funny sounds like it needs deliverance 😅.

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But still, I take public transport when I have to. Because it's the cheapest, and it's everywhere. You don't need to book or wait too long you just stand by the road and wave down a bus or keke. It gets the job done, even though it's not always comfortable.

However, when I have small money or I’m going somewhere important maybe a job interview, church, wedding or business meeting I prefer to order a Bolt or Uber. It's way more peaceful. I can sit alone, enjoy the AC, no conductor shouting in my ear, and I can even catch up with calls or prepare mentally for where I’m going. It makes me feel like a soft babe 😅.

To be honest, I don't have a car yet, but I know the day I get mine, that one will be my best transport. Because having your own car in Nigeria is like having your own freedom. You won’t have to stand under hot sun waiting for bus, or squeeze inside keke with four people on a bench. You can even play your own music and stop anywhere you want.

As for flying well, I’ve not experience flying before but i like it because it’s fast and neat, but flight tickets these days are like gold. It’s not every time you can afford it. I save flying for special journeys or long distance travel like Abuja or outside Nigeria.

In summary, I like ride hailing the most it's a sweet balance between convenience and comfort. But I still enter public transport ooo when the budget is tight. And one day, I’ll drive my own car with soft music and chilled water in the cupholder 😄.

Till then, I go where my wallet allows, and I thank God for movement every day.

With love🧡🩷❤️
Hamidu yetunde