When President Bola Ahmed Tinubu boldly declared “fuel subsidy is gone” in May 2023, many Nigerians didn’t fully understand the storm that was coming. Overnight, the cost of fuel skyrocketed from ₦185/litre to over ₦800/litre, and for many, car keys became ornaments on the shelf. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

But true to Naija spirit, Nigerians are never without survival tactics. From okadas to office sleeping bags, the streets are full of genius (and sometimes hilarious) ways people are coping without personal cars.

Here are 7 brilliant ways Nigerians are surviving the fuel subsidy removal — and still showing up to the hustle like champs.

1. The Rise of ‘Japa’ Trekking

Who needs a treadmill when Lagos traffic already does the job? Many Nigerians now intentionally trek several kilometers daily. Some even track their steps on fitness apps, jokingly calling it “subsidy cardio.”

“I used to drive from Jakande to Lekki Phase 1. Now I walk part of the journey, and my jeans fit better,” — Nkem, a Lagos makeup artist.

🔍 Fact: A recent survey by SBM Intelligence showed that 38% of urban Nigerians now trek regularly to save transport costs.

2. Bikes and Keke Are the New Uber

With Uber and Bolt fares going insane, many Nigerians have turned to cheaper options like okadas and kekes. They may not be glamorous, but they get the job done — and fast!

Some Lagosians even carpool okadas, squeezing 2–3 friends on a single bike during rush hour.

Read Also: 7 Classic Lies Lagos Workers Tell (No. 3 Will Make Your Boss Side-Eye You)

3. Office Sleepovers Are Now Normal

Some workers, especially in tech and banking, now stay over at work to avoid commuting expenses. A few companies have even provided mats and pillows for this purpose.

“I only go home on weekends. It saves me ₦14,000 weekly,” — Uzo, a financial analyst in VI.

🔍 Fact: According to a Channels TV report, commuting now takes 30-50% of some Lagosians’ salaries.

4. Remote Work Boom (Thank You, Zoom!)

The fuel crisis made Nigerian employers rethink remote work. Startups, NGOs, and even churches now hold virtual meetings more often.

“Fuel subsidy killed our physical Monday devotions. Now we pray on WhatsApp voice note,” — Lekan, a church admin.

And just like that, data is the new fuel.

5. Electric Scooters & Bicycles Are Trending

It may sound like a futuristic solution, but electric scooters and bicycles are making waves in cities like Abuja and Lagos.

Young professionals are embracing these alternatives, and some estates have started supporting e-bike sharing services.

“I plug it at night, ride to work in the morning. I’ve not bought petrol in 3 weeks,” — Tope, a tech bro in Yaba.

🔍 Tip: Brands like Solar Taxi and MAX.ng are expanding their reach in Nigeria’s electric mobility space.

6. Bus-sharing WhatsApp Groups (Yes, It’s a Thing)

From Isolo to Berger, Nigerians are creating WhatsApp groups to coordinate morning and evening rides. Some even include trusted keke and danfo drivers.

It’s all about splitting costs — and building community.

“It’s not just transport. It’s vibes and survival,” — Joy, a HR exec in Surulere.

7. Portable Power Banks and Charging at Work

With longer trek times and unreliable public transport, people now carry power banks like water bottles. Others charge all their devices at work — including electric shavers and fans!

“Fuel is gold. If NEPA takes light, I wait till I get to the office to charge anything,” — Mustapha, a graphics designer.

Conclusion: Nigerians Never Carry Last

The fuel subsidy removal hit hard, no doubt. But if there’s one thing consistent in every corner of Nigeria, it’s resilience. From car-free commuting to co-riding Okadas, Nigerians have turned a crisis into creativity.

If you’re still surviving the subsidy wahala, share your unique story in the comments. Let’s document this era for the future — because Naija no dey carry last!