Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Okadas



“Okada” in Nigeria means motorcycle, and there aren’t many on Jos roads these days. My friend Nna says there’s an “embargo” on them, which means they aren’t legally allowed since the January crisis. Well, this is a MAJOR deal there because most people rely on okadas for basic transportation – to and from work, the market, appointments, etc. I wonder how Faith Alive’s home-based-care team is getting around; they depend on their okadas.

At least temporarily, Jos residents have to rely on car taxis, which are generally filled to the brim with passengers (literally!). Okada drivers who count on their bikes for income have to look elsewhere for work or sneak small-small rides, at the risk of getting caught. Because finding enough room in a taxi is extra challenging now, people have to leave work hours early to make sure they’re home in time for the 6 p.m. curfew.

I’ve never ridden on a Nigerian okada, and don’t intend to. Dr. Chris advises his guests to only ride in Faith Alive cars with Faith Alive drivers; they keep us safe. Maybe that’s why I like our drivers Greg, Goddy, Innocent, and Victor so much.

(Photos from Google Images)

2 comments:

  1. Nice one Erika, Faith Alive home based can use theirs since its not a commercial one, cheers

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  2. Ah, so glad to hear that, Nna. :-)

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