With rising unemployment in the country, many university graduates in Rivers State say they have resorted to commercial motorcycle riding, popularly known as Okada, as a means of survival.
Some of the riders explained that the venture provides them with income to cater for their families despite their academic qualifications. Among them is Israel Mekwa, a graduate of Education Foundation from the University of Port Harcourt, and Moses Chefa, a Higher National Diploma holder from Adamawa State Polytechnic, who both turned to Okada riding after struggling to secure formal employment.
Other commercial motorcyclists noted that the business not only puts food on the table but also helps in reducing crime by keeping unemployed youths engaged.
Meanwhile, the Secretary of the Nigerian Institute of Safety Professionals in Rivers State, Taiwo Bodurine, has advised Okada riders to prioritize safety while on the roads, stressing the importance of protecting both their lives and those of their passengers.
