"I dropped my degree to become a taxi driver" – Abuja-based female taxi driver tells her story

– Susan Asakpa is a female taxi driver based in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja

– She studied Accounting at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka

– One day her father bought her the car which she converted into a taxi

History books recorded that Funmilayo Ransom-Kuti, a political campaigner, women's activist and the mother of the legendary musician, Fela Kuti, was the first woman to drive a car in Nigeria.

Today, while some women are afraid of the car steering, others have decided to earn a living in the male-dominated field of taxi drivers. One of such ladies is Delta state born Susan Asakpa.

"I studied Accounting at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. I worked in a hotel for about three years. There was nothing new anymore, no challenge and the salary was stagnant. Later on, my boss called me up and told me that he will be reducing my salary by N10,000. I was surprised."

Susan tells NAIJ.com

"Before then, I have been thinking about what business I can do. I had three business ideas (hair dressing, food and taxi business). I prayed about them after which I chose this one,"

the young lady continued.

"I spoke with my dad who happens to be my closest confidant and he quickly got a loan from the bank and bought me this car. He has been so supportive, not a single word of discouragement," she said.

With the needed encouragement from her father who bought her a car on loan, Asakpa began her journey as the first female graduate taxi driver in Abuja.

Speaking on the journey so far, stated that her major challenge on the job is being denied access into some government offices and estates due to the colour of her car.

"One of my low moments on this job is when I am not allowed into government offices because my car is painted green which is the official colour for Abuja taxis."

"Maybe I read the law wrongly or something, but it is stated that if I want to use my vehicle for commercial purpose, I should paint it in the uniform colour which is green. I have lost a lot of customers and this has affected my business a lot of times."

"Also, I have had good times when others stopped me, often shocked to see me on the steering, they hopped into the car and most times they even ask me to keep the change (which is good for business)."

Susan continues

Miss Asakpa hopes to further her education and become a lecturer in future

The beautiful lady declined to comment when asked about her marital status. However, she hinted that she could marry a taxi driver if he is educated, focused and speaks good English.

Asakpa, who is a role model to other young girls, hopes to invest in her business, continued her education and become a lecturer in the nearest future.

"My advice to young girls is that they should dare to be positively different because most of us are afraid to be different. Well that has not been my challenge. Some of these young girls have the talent but they are afraid to come out."

"I know I am not the first girl who had this idea but today, I am the first graduate who has come out to do it. There are graduates these days that are diversifying. So be original,"

she concluded.