Get Guardian on GoogleAs Nigeria adapts to a new national minimum wage and rising inflation, recent data from inDrive, a global ride-hailing platform operating in nine African countries, has revealed that its top drivers significantly exceed average earnings.
According to an internal analysis of activity in the first half of 2025, the top 50 drivers on the platform earned an average of N7,685,494.56 over six months, translating to N1,280,915.76 per month. Compared to the same period in 2024, this represents a 39.65 per cent increase in earnings.
The report also highlights a shift in drivers’ behaviour, with many top earners prioritising a higher volume of shorter trips to maximise efficiency and daily income.
Longer trips, including intercity and airport routes, remain an important income stream, especially in tourism hubs and high-traffic corridors.
Speaking on the development, the Country Representative of inDrive, Oladimeji Timothy, emphasised the platform’s role in addressing the growing economic challenges faced by many Nigerians.
As inflation continues to rise and job opportunities remain limited, Timothy explained that platforms like inDrive offer alternative livelihood means for thousands across the country.
He added that inDrive’s peer-to-peer pricing model and low commission structure are central to this impact, allowing drivers to retain a substantial portion of their earnings while maintaining control over their schedules.
“The flexibility and low commission structure of inDrive empower drivers to keep more of what they earn. At a time when many Nigerians are seeking ways to cope with inflation, fuel price hikes, and limited job opportunities, gig platforms like inDrive are helping to create sustainable, independent sources of income,” he said.
