If anyone told 55-year-old Godwin Ike 20 years ago that he would become a taxi driver in his lifetime, he would have dismissed the statement.
However, 21 years later, Ike says he makes an average of N130,000 in a month, and has built a house from his current taxi business.
He also supports other members of his family with the earnings from driving a taxi.
“I was newly married and a businessman in 2000, but due to government policies in demolition of houses and shops to get Abuja to its current state, I was affected and it left me with no choice than to look for any means necessary to take care of my family. Hence, I ended up being a taxi driver,” he said.
Ike said he was stranded and had to opt for menial jobs, and saved his earnings to get his first car.
Ike says being a taxi driver has brought stability to his finances, as he now makes enough money to take care of his family and immediate needs.
“I make an average of N6,000 a day and roughly N130,000 monthly after all the necessary dues, fuelling and maintenance are done,” he said.
“I have been able to see my kids through school, get a land and also build a house out of the money I have gotten from this job.”
The business, however, hasn’t been without challenges, according to Ike.
“The only issue we have basically is the restriction in some parts of the city because we drive coloured cars. Only unpainted cabs are allowed in these places, but aside from that, I am comfortable with being a taxi driver,” he said.
Below are photos of Ike.
