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More women are now in the commercial tricycle-driving business in Akure, Ondo State. This is according to the Chairman of Arakale Motor Park, Biodun Ogundele, in an interview at the park. Ogundele revealed that when the business was introduced in Ondo State in 2005, only two women joined. The number has now grown to over 30 women using tricycles for commercial purposes.
Ogundele encouraged more women to join the business despite the challenges they face. He mentioned that while women still encounter difficulties in attracting customers compared to men, they have been trained to become experts in their field.
Many women in the tricycle-driving business shared their experiences with 1newsNG. They acknowledge that the profession is demanding but with adequate training, they have been able to cope.
Akintunde Solape, a female commercial tricycle driver, expressed the need to persuade passengers to ride with her due to prevailing fear and skepticism. However, she emphasised her additional training and urged people not to be afraid.
Olawumi Sileola, another female tricycle driver, explained that the economic situation in the country compelled her to venture into the business to support her family. She mentioned that although the work is strenuous, it is more financially rewarding, and some individuals even prefer to ride with female drivers.
Olawumi Sileola another tricycle commercial driver said the condition of the country has pushed her to venture into the business.
“A friend of mine bought this tricycle for me as an assistance,” she said. “The economic situation of this country is not encouraging. The work is stressful but I get more money from it. Men envy us sometimes because, these days, people now want to go with female drivers while some are afraid to go with us thinking we are not experts.”
Ibitoye Bolanle lamented the challenges faced by female drivers, including being overtaken by male drivers during their turn, dealing with ticket payments, and encountering garage thugs. She expressed her desire to explore alternative business opportunities if available. “The male counterparts are not really helping matters,” she said. “They overtake us sometimes when it’s our turn. We pay for tickets and face thugs. I always buy pain relievers and sometimes visit the hospital for medical checkups. If I have another choice I would venture into another business.”