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Showing posts from 2024

Don’t Borrow Money To Impress: A Timely Reminder for the Festive Season

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As the festive season approaches, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and the pressure to make a grand impression. The glittering lights, the endless parties, and the temptation to splurge on gifts, outfits, and celebrations can push many into making unwise financial decisions. But here’s a gentle yet crucial reminder: Christmas and New Year will always come and go, but the debt you incur trying to impress people will stay with you. The Danger of Borrowing to Impress In today’s world, many people feel compelled to showcase a lavish lifestyle, especially during the holidays. Social media only amplifies this pressure, as we see friends and acquaintances posting pictures of extravagant meals, designer clothes, or expensive gifts. However, borrowing money to fund such a lifestyle is a dangerous trap. The reality is: 1. People you’re trying to impress probably don’t notice. The truth is, most people are too busy with their own lives to care about how much you spent on your outfit o...

Transporting Deceased Bodies From Their City of Residence To Their Villages or Ancestral Homes

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It’s a curious tradition, isn’t it? Someone spends their entire life building a home and living in a bustling city, far from their "ancestral home." Yet, when they pass away, their body is transported back to their village or state of origin. Why do we do this? For many, it’s rooted in cultural and traditional beliefs. In some societies, the idea of returning to one's "roots" or "home soil" is seen as the final act of connection to one's lineage and heritage. But if you ask me, it feels like an unnecessary exercise in sentimentality and a waste of time and resources. Think about it: If someone lived their whole life in a city, built memories, raised a family, and possibly even owned property there, why isn’t that place considered their home? What makes the village or “hometown” they left behind decades ago a more valid resting place than where they spent their life? For me, home is anywhere a person finds peace, fulfillment, and belonging. It’s not...

The Decline of Rideshare Business in Nigeria: A Reflection

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It seems like every year, the rideshare business keeps getting tougher. Back in 2019/2020, when fuel was around ₦200 per litre, I had a friend who was thriving as a driver. After just three or four trips, he would head straight to a beer parlor, grab some beer, and treat himself to some well-prepared catfish. Life was good for him back then. Fast forward to now, and the story has completely changed. I can’t even remember the last time I saw a rideshare driver relaxing at a beer parlor. This work has become so difficult that it seems almost impossible to enjoy the fruits of the labor. Imagine this: Uber is now taking over 33% or more as commission from each trip, and it's only a matter of time before other rideshare apps follow suit, increasing their own commission rates. For drivers who are still working under hire purchase agreements in this tough economy, hats off to you! This era of high fuel prices, increased vehicle maintenance costs, and steep commissions is not for the faint...

Gaining Perspective: A Path to Empathy and Gratitud

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 Life can often feel overwhelming when we’re caught up in our own struggles. Whether it’s work stress, family challenges, or personal setbacks, the weight of our problems can feel all-consuming. In these moments, it’s easy to lose sight of the bigger picture. That’s why stepping back and observing the lives of others can be a transformative experience. When we pause to look beyond ourselves, we start to see that everyone is fighting their own battles. These struggles might not always be visible, but they exist for everyone in different forms. Recognizing this truth can be a powerful way to gain perspective. It shifts our focus from our own difficulties to a more balanced understanding of life, helping us realize that we are not alone in facing challenges. This simple act of reflection not only broadens our perspective but also cultivates empathy. When we acknowledge the struggles of others, we become more understanding and compassionate. Empathy allows us to connect with people on ...

URGENT NOTICE: Third Mainland Bridge Speed Limit Cameras Now Active

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In an effort to enhance road safety and reduce speeding incidents, speed limit cameras have been installed on the Third Mainland Bridge. These cameras are now fully operational, meaning violators of the speed limit will face penalties. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to ensure safer driving conditions and minimize accidents on one of Lagos' busiest roadways. Adhering to the speed limit is not only crucial for avoiding tickets but also for ensuring the safety of all road users. What You Need to Do: 1. Drive Within the Speed Limit: Pay close attention to road signs indicating the speed limit, and ensure your speed does not exceed the prescribed limit. 2. Share This Information: Inform your family, friends, and drivers about the new development to help them stay compliant and avoid unnecessary fines. 3. Exercise Caution: With traffic enforcement now active, practicing defensive driving and maintaining safe speeds is more important than ever. Why It Matters Speeding contribu...

The New Second Rainbow Bridge is Open

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 Good morning, Comrade! Great news for commuters and residents in Festac and its environs: the much-anticipated Second Rainbow Bridge is now fully open for access. This development is a game-changer for those navigating the area, offering an alternative route that simplifies movement in and out of Festac. If you're heading to destinations like the airport or Oshodi, there's no longer any need to pass through Mile 2. Simply use the bridge to connect directly to your desired route, saving time and avoiding congestion. This improvement is expected to enhance travel efficiency and ease traffic flow for residents and travelers alike. W ishing you a smooth and productive journey as you start your week!

Using an Expensive Car for Ehailing Job in Nigeria : Is It Worth It?

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If you’re using an expensive car for Ehailing Job in Nigeria , you’re essentially ripping yourself apart financially. It’s like volunteering to be exploited by both the rideshare apps and the riders. You might think you’re doing a great job satisfying and pleasing your passengers, but at the end of the day, you’re left with empty hands and no real reward for your effort. The truth is, the fare structure of these apps doesn’t match the high service standards expected when driving a premium vehicle. Why put in all that extra cost and stress when the returns don’t justify the investment? It’s time to rethink the tools you use for this job. Focus on cost efficiency and long-term sustainability instead of trying to impress riders who are only paying the bare minimum.

The Importance of Understanding Ride Options: A Note to Riders

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 I n today’s fast-paced world, ride-hailing platforms like Bolt, Uber, and inDrive have revolutionized how we move around. They offer convenience, accessibility, and various ride options tailored to different needs and budgets. However, it’s essential for riders to understand the distinctions between these options and manage their expectations accordingly. Choosing the Right Ride Option: Bolt vs. Comfort Ride options like Bolt and Comfort cater to different preferences. The Bolt option is typically more affordable, offering standard rides with basic amenities. In contrast, the Comfort option provides premium perks such as more spacious vehicles, enhanced comfort, and often more experienced drivers. If you choose the Bolt option, it’s crucial to keep in mind that it’s designed for budget-friendly transportation. Riders shouldn’t expect the same premium experience associated with Comfort rides. Meanwhile, selecting the Comfort option comes with added perks that justify its higher pri...

How to Save Money on Food in Nigeria Today

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 When it comes to saving money on food, one effective approach is choosing the right types of food that keep you fuller for longer. In Nigeria today, where the cost of food is constantly rising, it’s essential to focus on foods that give you more value for your money, both nutritionally and in terms of satiety. Here’s a practical tip: consider eating more proteinous foods instead of relying heavily on carbohydrates. Why highly Proteinous Foods Are Better for Saving Money Proteinous foods have a slower digestion process, meaning they “no dey quick digest.” Foods high in protein, like beans, eggs, fish, and legumes, provide lasting energy and help you feel fuller for longer periods. This reduces the frequency of hunger pangs and helps you avoid needing extra meals or snacks, which can be a big money-saver in the long run. On the flip side, highly carbohydratefoods like rice, amala, semo, and eba digest quickly. While these meals may initially satisfy your hunger, you often find yours...

The Realities of Delivering for the Rich: A Driver’s Experience

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As an Uber driver, I’ve met all kinds of people from different walks of life, each trip coming with its own story. But one recent experience made me pause and reflect on how some people treat those who work for them and the often-thankless effort it takes just to make a simple delivery. This is a glimpse into one encounter that sheds light on the mistreatment of domestic workers and the reality of dealing with difficult clients. The Request It was a typical afternoon, and I was in Ilupeju when a ride request came in from Anthony with a destination in Magodo. The fare was good, so I accepted without a second thought. When I arrived, the client informed me it was actually a cake delivery, not a passenger trip. I hesitated since I’m usually cautious about deliveries. However, I’d already burned fuel, and the fare was promising, so I decided to go through with it. The seller placed the cake in my car, and I asked who would be paying for the ride. She assured me that the person who made the...

The Realities of Being an Uber Driver Amidst Rising Fuel Prices

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In recent times, the cost of fuel has skyrocketed, impacting everyone on the road, especially those of us who rely on driving for our income. For Uber drivers, this means that every trip comes with higher expenses, from the fuel in our tanks to the maintenance our vehicles need. Unfortunately, while our costs have gone up, Uber fares haven't quite kept up with the reality of these changes. 1. The Impact of Rising Fuel Prices on Uber Drivers For most drivers, fuel is one of the biggest expenses. When fuel prices were lower, fares felt manageable, but now, with the price per liter rising, it's tough to justify certain trips. A trip from Berger to Ikoyi, which used to be a decent fare, can now feel like a break-even—or even a loss—due to fuel costs alone. In places like Lagos, where fuel prices have surged beyond what we could’ve predicted, this creates a significant gap between income and expenses. 2. When Fare Adjustments Don’t Keep Pace One of the biggest frustrations is seeing...

E-Hailing Drivers Demand Fairer Rates and Better App Control: Strike Begins October 25, 2024

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E-hailing services have revolutionized transportation, providing convenience for riders and work opportunities for drivers. But as platforms like Uber, Bolt, and Indrive continue to grow, drivers are beginning to raise concerns about commission rates and fare controls. Starting on October 25, 2024, e-hailing drivers have decided to go on strike, calling for specific changes that would create fairer conditions for those working in the industry. In this post, we’ll explore the issues leading up to the strike, what drivers are demanding, and what this might mean for the future of the e-hailing industry. Why Drivers Are Going on Strike? High Commission Rates One of the main issues drivers are highlighting is the commission rates charged by e-hailing companies. Currently, Uber and Bolt charge commission rates that drivers feel are unsustainable, and they're calling for these rates to be reduced to 10%. High commissions eat into drivers' earnings, leaving them with less to cover the ...

My Two Days Bitter Experience In Iyaganku , Ibadan Police Cell

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Eleven years ago, I had a life-changing experience that I still vividly remember. It all started when my car accidentally collided with another vehicle, causing damage. What seemed like a minor accident turned into a nightmare when I found myself taken to the Iyaganku police cell in Ibadan. Upon arriving at the cell, I was shocked by the conditions. The place was overcrowded, filled with hardened criminals. The atmosphere was oppressive, and the cell itself was in a state of neglect. Feces were splattered across the floor, creating an unbearable stench. We were forced to sleep on this filthy ground, with no regard for basic hygiene or comfort. The physical and mental toll of that experience was overwhelming. I remember feeling a mix of fear and helplessness. As days went by, I began to notice my health deteriorating. I contacted an unknown disease that left me feeling weak and vulnerable. It took several months of treatment to recover fully, a constant reminder of my time in that dread...

Beware: A Cautionary Tale of a Rider Who Ran Away with a Driver's Money

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In the world of ride-sharing and transportation services, trust is paramount. Drivers rely on passengers to uphold their end of the bargain by paying for their rides, but what happens when that trust is broken? In a recent incident that shook the trust within the industry, a rider ran away with a driver's hard-earned money, leaving behind a cautionary tale for both drivers and passengers alike. The story begins like any other routine ride. John, a seasoned driver with years of experience driving for a popular ride-sharing service, received a ride request from a passenger named Sarah. Sarah seemed like any other passenger – polite, friendly, and in need of a ride to her destination. As John navigated through the city streets, engaging in casual conversation with Sarah, he had no reason to suspect anything was amiss. Little did he know that this seemingly ordinary ride would take an unexpected turn. Upon reaching Sarah's destination, John expected the typical exchange of fare pay...
 Why would i want to do a trip from sangotedo to lekki phase 1 with ten minutes pick-up for 5000 naira fare. I even know bolt will remove there 25% painful commission.  I saw the price before i picked I saw the long pick up before i accept the trip I know of the 25 percent commission So why should i complain? Never would I do a trip like that unless i set destination. I have studied the business enough to know to decline and what to accept. To hell with driver score and bonus, my own choice of trip is what I look out for. I buy my fuel, maintain my car and also pay bolt so why won't i have a choice to work at the way i can maximize profits. If You are  complaining in these game it means you are not understanding the rules enough. You are not suppose to pick trip if the destination is not your choice except the price is tempting. You are not suppose to pick poor fare except it's your destination. You are not suppose to pick up many trips if surge is not at stake. Brothers,...

The Cost of Vehicle Maintenance is Becoming Outrageous

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 JUST-IMAGINE…!!! ============== No AC….. No Uber biz…! Hell can’t be hotter than maintenance of car these days…… Yesterday, I bought 1-liter(top-up) power steering oil for #3500 & brake oil-#2500 Just this morning my Aircondition system packed up & the technician came up with an estimate of over #120k: >compressor-80k >evaporator—30k >sunction hose/gas/labor—20k We seemed to have boarded a “1chance bus” that d driver is heading to where we no know o! #icomeinpeace

ONE OF MY TOUGHEST NIGHTS ON THE JOB

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My fellow comrades, make una hear gist at the same time join me thank God. I was in Thomas estate when this trip came in around some minutes past 2am on indriver. I was to take this particular passenger to somewhere around Orinbanwa beside Blenco supermarket.  We embarked on the trip which was very smooth until we got to the busstop from where we are to connect the the rider's street.  On entering the street right from the express, A man out of the dark suddenly appeared in front of me while moving his right towards the edge of his short gesticulating to me to turn off my car, at the same time moving his right hand around his waist as though he  wanted to reach for his pistol that's tucked there. Omo na so, I put car for reverse o use speed try to cut enter express. I didn't know that they already parked their bus behind me blocking the entrance of the Street.  Omo 3 other guys from no where suddenly appeared from both sides of my car and another one behind. Intuitiv...