Across Nigeria’s bustling cities, the sound of motorcycle engines and car horns has become the rhythm of a new work culture driven by delivery and ride-hailing platforms.
Young Nigerians, faced with limited employment opportunities, are increasingly turning to digital platforms that connect drivers, riders, and customers through simple mobile applications.
These platforms offer flexible schedules, allowing workers to determine their hours, accept orders, and manage income independently.
Many riders say the system gives them a sense of control and dignity, especially in a time when formal jobs are scarce.
However, the flexibility comes at a price, as most workers operate without any formal contracts, insurance coverage, or retirement plans.
A sudden illness, accident, or app suspension can bring a worker’s earnings to a halt, often with little or no safety net.
Some riders must also pay daily remittances to vehicle owners or rental companies, leaving them with slim profits after fuel and maintenance costs.
Despite these challenges, the gig economy continues to expand, reshaping how Nigerians move, eat, and trade.
Restaurants, pharmacies, and online stores now rely heavily on delivery services to reach customers quickly, especially in congested cities like Lagos and Port Harcourt.
The growing trend has also spurred innovation, with local startups developing home-grown apps to compete with global platforms.
Still, questions remain about regulation, taxation, and worker protection in this fast-growing but loosely governed sector.
Analysts believe that if properly structured, the gig economy could become a stable pillar of Nigeria’s employment landscape.
For now, it remains both an opportunity and a struggle for thousands trying to make a living one ride at a time.