Bus drivers at Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY), Abeokuta, claim they are facing severe financial difficulties, as fuel expenses often exceed their daily earnings.
Speaking to Nigeria Education News, a driver, Mr. Sanusi, explained that long distances and low fares make the business unprofitable. “Sometimes, what goes into fuel is higher than our income,” he lamented. He added that many drivers now run side businesses to support their families since transport work on campus alone cannot sustain them. “Without other businesses, most of us would have abandoned the job,” he said.
Despite these struggles, fares remain relatively low for students — ₦100 to ₦200 within campus and ₦300 to ₦400 to Panseke. Sanusi noted that the Students’ Union has maintained good relations with the drivers, ensuring that students are not exploited.
The drivers say they will always be committed to student welfare, but warn that without better earnings, their service may not be sustainable in the long run.
