In the bustling streets of Ilorin, where the sun beats down and the drum of life reverberates in every corner, there emerges a trailblazer unlike any other in the town. She is Risikat Adisa, a 54-year-old mother of four with a spirit as fierce as the wind that swept through the city.

Back in 2011, Risikat made a bold decision that would change not only her own life but also set a new path for women in her community. She climbed onto a tricycle, known to all as Keke NAPEP, and ventured into the realm of commercial riding – a domain exclusive to men.

With each turn of the wheel, she becomes not just a driver but a beacon of empowerment and resilience. As she navigates the chaotic streets, her presence became a revelation.

In a conservative Muslim dominated city, Risikat defied stereotypes and expectations. These humble beginnings have grown into a symbol of hope for women seeking to break free from the shackles of poverty.

Risikat became more than a driver, but a model, showing others that gender should never be a barrier to chasing one’s dreams. Popularly known as First Lady among her colleagues, Risikat said she started riding a tricycle when she was 43, to support her husband, a printer, in making provisions for the family.

“I discovered that if you want to succeed as a woman and you want to train your children to the level you want in Nigeria today, you cannot rely alone on your husband’s provision.

“That is what made me have a second thought on what I can do to support my husband and I decided to give riding tricycle a trial,” she said.

In Nigeria, women constitute over 60 per cent of the poorest people; and going by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) statistics, Nigeria has over 87 million people in extreme poverty. This, obviously, translates to approximately 52 million women in the clutches of extreme poverty.

Due to the rising level of poverty among women in Nigeria, the gender referred to as the ‘weaker sex’ have, apparently, decided to take the bull by the horn to do all kinds of jobs, as long as it is legal.

Being the pioneering woman in her field, Risikat operates on the Gaa-Akanbi-Agbabiaka-Danialu route, where she defied odds and persevered with the backing of her husband, in spite of facing disparaging comments from friends and even some family members.

While initially wavering due to external pressure and opinions, Risikat’s husband contemplated halting her tricycle riding venture. However, on recognising the significant contributions she made to the family through the transport business, he chose to support her endeavours.

Commencing her journey with a tricycle acquired through hire purchase, Risikat has since flourished in the business, progressing to the point of purchasing her own tricycle. She has extended her success by entrusting her tricycle to another individual for daily operation, showcasing her evolution from a newcomer to a facilitator of opportunities within the transport sector.