From Hardship To Survival: Female Okada Rider Shares Inspiring Story Of Feeding Her Children

A female commercial motorcycle rider in Nyanya, Abuja, Tabo Justina, popularly known as “Pilot 101,” has shared her inspiring journey into the Okada business, revealing that financial difficulties pushed her into the male-dominated occupation and that the work has helped her cater to her children.

Justina, who described herself as the only celebrity female Okada rider in Nyanya, FCT, shared her experience in a video while speaking about her struggles, ambitions, family and the importance of financial independence for women.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Justina began riding commercial motorcycles on November 28, 2020, after experiencing serious financial challenges during her previous marriage. She explained that she initially took up the job as a means of survival and to ensure that her children had food.

She said the positive reactions she received from people whenever they saw her riding a motorcycle encouraged her to continue despite the risks associated with the occupation.

Justina revealed that her marriage ended about three years ago, but she remained committed to making a living through commercial motorcycle riding. She initially operated a motorcycle under a weekly remittance arrangement before receiving unexpected assistance from an anonymous man of Igala origin, who helped her acquire her own motorcycle.

According to her, owning the motorcycle significantly improved her financial situation and enabled her to take greater responsibility for her children’s welfare. She said she has been able to provide food for them and pay their school fees through her earnings.

Despite the benefits, Justina acknowledged that commercial motorcycle riding is dangerous. She disclosed that she had been involved in about four accidents since she started the job, stressing that the occupation comes with considerable risks.

She also spoke about her educational background, revealing that she attended primary and secondary school before obtaining a National Certificate in Education from the Federal College of Education in Benue State.

Reflecting on her experience, Justina encouraged women across Nigeria to develop skills or engage in legitimate businesses that can provide them with financial independence. She advised women not to rely entirely on their husbands or male partners for their survival, noting that circumstances such as separation, divorce or the death of a spouse can change people’s lives unexpectedly.

She also appealed to men to support the women in their families, including their wives, sisters and daughters, particularly amid the economic realities of the present time.

Beyond her Okada business, Justina revealed that she has several ambitions and hopes to pursue other opportunities. She said she has long desired to work in a uniformed service and has made several applications because of her passion for military and other uniformed professions.

However, she said that while waiting for such an opportunity, she has continued to work as a commercial motorcycle rider and remains determined to pursue her dreams.

Justina further explained that her family initially worried about her safety when she began riding Okada in Abuja. According to her, their major concern was the risk involved rather than the nature of the work itself, as her mother already knew her to be hardworking and willing to take on different jobs to make a living.

She recalled that her willingness to work dates back to her upbringing in Kogi State, where she learnt practical tasks including plastering, mixing concrete and preparing mortar.

Justina said her background helped shape her determination to survive and remain financially independent, adding that despite the challenges and risks of her current occupation, she remains grateful for the opportunity to provide for her children while pursuing her dreams.