Brands/Products

Two Wheels, One City: my Life as a Glovo Rider in Abuja

Published

6 months ago

17/07/2025

The sun has only just risen when my phone’s alarm pierces the silence of my room in Abuja. It’s 7:00 a.m., the first of six alarms I’ve set: 7:10, 7:30, 8:00, 8:10, 8:30, to ensure I don’t sleep through my morning. I’m the kind of person who could sleep for 24 hours straight, especially when nestling in the quiet of my own space. But the rhythm of my life as a Glovo delivery rider demands otherwise. Time is money in this job, and time waits for no one. So I roll out of bed, shake off the grogginess, and prepare to claim my slot for the day: a 13-hour stretch from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., during which I’ll drive through Abuja’s streets, delivering food and parcels to customers who place orders on the Glovo app.

My name is Christian Ogbu, and I’m a Lagosian by birth, though Abuja has been my home since late 2020. I spent my first two decades in Lagos. Like any man born to a low-income family, I had to quickly try my hand at informal trade. As an Igbo man, I took up an apprenticeship in a pharmacy. When that didn’t work out after four or five years, I returned to my father’s village in Nsukka, Enugu, where I hoped to recalibrate and find opportunities to settle. But that was short-lived. I’m not a village boy; I’m wired for movement, for the bustle of a city. So, towards the end of 2020, I left for Anambra State, where I chased work that never materialised. I didn’t want to return to Lagos, where I would have to rely on my mum. Instead, I left Anambra for Abuja, where an uncle offered me a place to stay. It was a chance to start over, to find my own “greener pasture”, as I told myself.

Abuja was unkind at first. I took a job as a security guard, arranged by my uncle, but the pay was meagre: hand-to-mouth, barely enough to keep me afloat. Frustration gnawed at me. I wasn’t raised to live in someone else’s shadow, least of all my mother’s, so I refused to return to Lagos. Instead, I struck out on my own, submitting CVs to companies, hoping for something better. My uncle’s refusal to support my job search, denying me his signature and his ID, left me feeling stranded. I was sleeping in someone’s house, but I had no one to lean on. I often took to the streets looking tattered and hungry in search of a job. That’s when I stumbled into dispatch work.

It was a chance encounter with a deliveryman that changed everything. I was hungry, looking rough, but too proud to beg for food. “I just want to work like you,” I told him. He took me to a restaurant called Ants in Mama, which, like many popular restaurants that were adjusting to pandemic restrictions, ran an in-house delivery fleet where they purchased motorcycles and placed drivers on salaries. This was where I got my first taste of food delivery. I didn’t know Abuja then, so I relied on Google Maps to navigate, my phone guiding me through unfamiliar streets. That first job was a trial by fire. The roads were unforgiving, especially where untarred paths and potholes tested my resolve. One day, I spilled a drink in my delivery box, and while rushing to replace it, I crashed into a parked motorcycle. The accident cost me my pay; the company used it to repair the bike. I was sad, but I didn’t give up.

Another courier took pity on me, leading me to somewhere I was hired again. This time, I used the work to learn Abuja’s streets. I’m quick to pick up patterns, a skill honed in Lagos, where I mastered shortcuts that others overlooked. Within months, I knew Abuja like the back of my hand. I started applying to logistics companies and landed a job with a franchise under Speedaf. In my first month, I shattered their delivery record, completing 50 to 60 orders a day when the highest before me was 20. My hard work earned me respect, even if it came with loose ends. There were moments of temptation: demanding extra cash from customers, a practice I later learned was common among delivery riders. When a customer recorded me and reported it, I faced suspension, but my manager, recognising my potential, fought to keep me.

Then I heard about Glovo. It was 2022, and the platform was different: riders worked independently, not under franchises. This means that their earnings were not capped to a monthly salary; instead, one could earn as much as they worked. I scraped together my savings, bought my own motorcycle, and signed up. A mentor told me, “Focus on this work, and you’ll see your earnings.” So I did. I left the other side hustles behind. Glovo requires that drivers book slots to confirm they are available for delivery. If a driver booked a slot, he had to be committed to it. Punctuality became my creed. If I booked a slot, I was there, no excuses. Even when thieves broke into my house, stealing my phone, which was my most important work tool, and money, I didn’t quit. I worked my way back, bought new gear, and kept going.

From scraping by to earning almost a million monthly as a Glovo rider

Glovo’s structure suited me. Unlike franchises, where you’re bound by rigid protocols, Glovo gave me freedom. I could reject deliveries to unsafe areas, like parts of Jahi or Kuje, where rough roads or security risks made riding perilous. Franchises didn’t care about rider safety. If a customer ordered to a dangerous spot, you went or face penalties. I once narrowly escaped a pit while being chased by dogs at night. With Glovo, I could say no, cancel the order, and move on. This autonomy made all the difference. I knew Abuja’s boundaries: where Glovo operated, where it didn’t, and I thrived within them. The app’s clear addresses meant I rarely needed Google Maps; I’d glance at the location, pocket my phone, and ride.

My consistency paid off. Glovo set daily targets: 25 to 30 deliveries to earn a “quest” bonus, and I hit them religiously. Other platforms, like Chowdeck or Mano, cap their targets at 10 to 15 orders a day, I think, but Glovo pushed me. It wasn’t just about the money, though I earn between ₦800,000 and ₦900,000 a month, more than most salaried jobs. After expenses, ₦36,000 for fuel, ₦5,000 for oil changes every seven days, and about ₦7,000 daily for food, I earn enough to live well. But the real reward is the peace of mind, the sense of purpose. Glovo’s challenges became my own; if I fell short of 25 deliveries, it felt like failure. The next day, I’d push harder, determined to meet the mark.

The work is gruelling: 13 hours on the road, six days a week. I take Saturdays off now, a lesson learned after my eyes started twitching from stress and too much caffeine last year. I cut out energy drinks, relying on my own stamina and the occasional biscuit or mineral water to keep me going. Breakfast is a must, but lunch is a luxury; I might not eat until I’m home, late at night, with takeaway in hand. Abuja’s cold nights demand a jumper, something Glovo doesn’t provide, so I layer up to stay warm.

The job has its highs and lows. Customers shape the experience. Some are demanding, insisting I deliver to their doorstep in estates where bikes aren’t allowed, leaving my motorcycle vulnerable to theft or tampering. Others are a joy, especially when they are foreigners, as they are often more polite and appreciative than locals. For example, foreigners who live at high-end hotels, which do not allow couriers to drive in, are often ready to meet me at the gate. “White customers,” as I call them, often stand out for their courtesy, waiting at the gate, thanking me for my effort. Nigerian customers can be hit or miss: some warm, others dismissive, a few outright rude. I once climbed to the fifth floor to deliver to a customer in a wheelchair, moved by their courteous note on the app. The word ‘please’ seems so inconsequential, but it means a lot and can influence how we respond to additional requests of customers. Respect, I’ve learned, is reciprocal. When customers treat me with dignity, I go the extra mile.

Then there are the surveys Glovo sends out, asking about our satisfaction or experiences. They’re alien to many riders, unaccustomed to forms or feedback. But I use them to learn, sometimes Googling terms or asking AI for clarity. These small moments of education, interacting with customers, navigating the app, and engaging with the world, make the job more than just deliveries. It’s exposure, a window into lives I’d never otherwise encounter.

In June 2025, Glovo recognised my efforts. At their summit in Lagos, I was awarded for delivering over 14,000 orders since joining in 2022. They called me a “punctuality champion,” a nod to my unwavering commitment to my slots. It has been a great relationship so far. I do have some crucial improvements, particularly regarding deliveries to estates and hotels where motorcycles are restricted. It would be great if the company implements a clear policy or in-app note for customers in these areas, mandating a mutual understanding with riders for doorstep deliveries. This change would not only address rider safety concerns—reducing the risk of theft from parked bikes or food tampering—but also ensure riders aren’t unfairly blamed for issues outside their control, fostering a more respectful and efficient delivery experience for everyone.

This job has been transformative, but I do believe it is still a means to an end. In five years, I don’t see myself still working as an app-based courier. I want an adventure: maybe a business. I want to settle down, marry, and build something of my own. God has blessed me through this gig work, and I believe He’ll keep opening doors.

For now, though, I’m content. Abuja is in my hands, its streets etched into my memory. And as long as I’m on my bike using Glovo to connect to customers, I’m not just delivering food; I’m delivering myself to a future I’m still building.

Related Topics:download Glovo app Glovo Glovo app Glovo app store Glovo playstore Glovo rider Glovo rider abuja Glovo rider lagos

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Sell Gift Cards in Nigeria Safely: Why Migo-Sell Gift Cards Is Becoming a Trusted Gift Card Trading Platform

Published

5 days ago

07/01/2026

Dipo Olowookere

As digital payments continue to expand across Africa, gift card trading has become one of the most practical ways for users in Nigeria and Ghana to convert digital value into cash. From Apple Gift Cards and Amazon Gift Cards to Steam, Google Play, and gaming-related cards, many users now prefer to sell gift card online to meet daily financial needs.

However, despite strong demand, the gift card exchange market in Nigeria still faces long-standing challenges. Delayed payments, unclear pricing, inconsistent verification standards, and increasing fraud cases have made trust the single most important factor when choosing a gift card trading platform.

Against this background, Migo – Sell Gift Cards is positioning itself as a more structured and reliable gift card trading app, focused on transparency, controlled verification, and predictable payouts rather than exaggerated promises.

Rising Demand, but Trust Remains the Industry’s Weak Point

For many users, converting gift cards to cash is no longer optional. While international gift cards are widely used for online shopping, subscriptions, and digital entertainment, not all Nigerian users can spend them directly within the local financial system.

As a result, redeeming gift cards for cash in Nigeria has become common practice. Yet user complaints across the market reveal recurring issues: hidden deductions, unstable gift card rates, rejected cards without explanation, and payouts that take far longer than expected.

Migo – Sell Gift Cards was developed after examining these weaknesses across the industry. Rather than competing solely on speed or headline rates, the platform aims to deliver consistency—clear rules, visible pricing, and realistic processing timelines.

Supporting High-Demand Gift Cards in Nigeria and Ghana

User demand in the Nigerian gift card market is highly diverse. Instead of limiting transactions to only a few brands, Migo – Sell Gift Cards supports a wide range of gift cards that are actively traded across Nigeria and Ghana, including:

Apple Gift Card, Amazon Gift Card, Steam Gift Card, Google Play Gift Card, Razer Gold Gift Card, Xbox Gift Card, PlayStation Gift Card, Roblox Gift Card, Vanilla Gift Card, Walmart MoneyCard, Target Gift Card, Macy’s Gift Card, Best Buy, GameStop, Nike Gift Card, Foot Locker Gift Card, Sephora Gift Card, Nordstrom, Coach Gift Card, Dollar General, NetSpend, Lowe’s, Paysafe Card, MoneyPak, American Express (Amex), go2bank, and One4All.

This broad coverage allows users to sell gift cards in Nigeria on a single platform, reducing the risks associated with switching between multiple gift card exchange services.

Controlled Speed Instead of Risky “Instant” Claims

In the gift card trading industry, “instant cashout” is often promoted but rarely explained. In practice, unverified speed frequently leads to disputes, failed payouts, or account restrictions.

Migo – Sell Gift Cards adopts a controlled processing approach, combining automated systems with manual verification to assess gift cards based on brand, type, and risk level. Once verification is completed, payouts are processed in Nigerian Naira (NGN) or Ghanaian Cedi (GHS).

This method prioritizes reliability and user protection while still aiming for timely cashouts within reasonable and clearly communicated timeframes.

Transparent Gift Card Rates in Nigeria

One of the biggest concerns for users is gift card rates in Nigeria, which can fluctuate frequently based on market conditions. Migo – Sell Gift Cards addresses this by displaying the available exchange rate before a user confirms a transaction.

Whether users want to sell Apple Gift Card, sell Steam Gift Card,sell macy’s gift card or trade other brands, pricing is visible upfront. Once a rate is accepted and verification is completed, there are no unexpected deductions, helping users better predict their final payout.

Simple and Consistent Trading Process

To make online gift card trading accessible to both new and experienced users, Migo – Sell Gift Cards keeps its workflow straightforward:

Create an account (https://www.migogiftcard.com)
Select the gift card type
Submit gift card details or images
Verification process
Cash payout

This consistent structure reduces errors, improves clarity, and supports both first-time users and frequent traders.

Raising Standards in a High-Risk Digital Market

As Nigeria’s digital finance ecosystem grows, competition among gift card trading platforms is shifting away from speed alone toward risk management, transparency, and user communication.

Migo – Sell Gift Cards states that its long-term goal goes beyond completing transactions. By maintaining clear rules, stable execution, and responsive customer support, the platform aims to contribute to higher standards across the Nigeria gift card exchange industry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Migo – Sell Gift Cards and how does it work?

Migo- Sell Gift Cards is a digital gift card trading platform that allows users in Nigeria and Ghana to sell gift cards online and receive cash payouts after verification.

Is Migo – Sell Gift Cards a legitimate gift card trading platform in Nigeria?

Yes. Migo – Sell Gift Cards operates with structured verification procedures, transparent pricing, and consistent payout rules designed to reduce fraud and failed transactions.

What types of gift cards can I sell on Migo – Sell Gift Cards?

Migo – Sell Gift Cards supports Apple, Amazon, Steam, Google Play, Razer Gold, Xbox, PlayStation, Roblox, Vanilla Visa, Walmart MoneyCard, Target, Macy’s, Best Buy, GameStop, Nike, Foot Locker, Sephora, Nordstrom, Coach, Dollar General, NetSpend, Lowe’s, Paysafe Card, MoneyPak, Amex, go2bank, and One4All.

How fast is payment after selling a gift card?

Payment speed depends on the gift card type and verification process. Once verified, payouts are processed in NGN or GHS as quickly as possible while maintaining security.

Does Migo – Sell Gift Cards offer instant cashout?

Migo – Sell Gift Cards focuses on reliable and predictable cashouts. Some transactions are faster than others, but all go through verification to protect users.

How are gift card rates determined in Nigeria?

Rates depend on brand, demand, card type, and risk level. Migo – Sell Gift Cards shows the available rate before transaction confirmation, with no hidden deductions after verification.

Is it safe to sell gift cards online on Migo – Sell Gift Cards?

Selling gift cards online carries risk, but Migo – Sell Gift Cards reduces this through a combination of automated systems and manual review to improve transaction safety.

Who can use Migo – Sell Gift Cards?

Migo – Sell Gift Cards currently serves users in Nigeria and Ghana.

About Migo – Sell Gift Cards

Migo – Sell Gift Cards is a digital gift card trading app serving users in Nigeria and Ghana. The platform focuses on secure verification, transparent pricing, and reliable cash payouts, helping users safely convert gift cards into cash through a structured and trustworthy process.

Website: https://www.migogiftcard.com

iOS Download Link: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/migo-sell-gift-cards/id6670494373

Playstore Download Link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.antwallet.giftcard

Brands/Products

DStv, GOtv to Retain CNN, Cartoon Network, 10 Others After Last Minute Deal

Published

2 weeks ago

01/01/2026

Adedapo Adesanya

By Adedapo Adesanya

Canal+ and Warner Bros. Discovery have signed a new multi-year, multi-territory agreement to strengthen their partnership internationally that will scrap the exit plans of channels like CNN International and Cartoon Network on pay television services -DStv and GOtv.

The last minute agreement reached on December 31, 2025, means 12 channels at risk of being yank off, including Discovery, CNN, TLC, Discovery Family, Real Time, Food Network, HGTV, Investigation Discovery, and Cartoon Network, will remain on both DStv and GOtv.

According to a statement by Canal+ yesterday, the deal between the two broadcasting giants spans multiple territories, including South Africa, the rest of Africa and regions in Europe where Canal+ also has operations.

Canal+ said: “This expanded agreement covers both the distribution of HBO Max and the renewal of several Warner Bros Discovery thematic channels across numerous regions.”

The announcement comes as a relief to DStv subscribers, who received notices via email and on-screen warnings from December 1, 2025, stating that the channels in question could be removed from their bouquets since contractual negotiations between Canal+ and Warner Bros Discovery had reached an impasse.

Regions outside Africa also affected by the new deal include Romania, Hungary, the Czech Republic and Slovakia, where Cartoon Network, Cartoonito and CNN International have been renewed.

Other Warner Bros channels renewed in European regions not available in Africa include Warner TV, Cinemax and TVN.

“Canal+ and its longstanding partner, Warner Bros Discovery, are pleased to announce the signing of a new multi-year and multi-territory agreement, marking a major milestone in the development of their collaboration on an international scale,” Canal+ stated.

The agreement between WBD and the French media group builds upon previous deals made in 2024, including the renewal of the exclusive pay-TV window for Warner Bros. Pictures films six months after their theatrical release in France and the integration of HBO Max within select Canal+ group offers.

It also comes during Netflix’s pending purchase of Warner Bros. Discovery, which could further position Canal+ as a power player on the global stage as the company already has distribution deals in place with Netflix.

Brands/Products

JMG Installs Solar Power Systems at Three NIPCO Fuel Stations

Published

3 weeks ago

23/12/2025

Aduragbemi Omiyale

By Aduragbemi Omiyale

Nigeria’s trusted hybrid and integrated electromechanical energy provider, JMG Limited, has completed the installation of solar power systems at three key fuel stations of NIPCO Plc.

The clean energy source was installed at NIPCO’s petrol dispensing outlets in Gwagwalada Abuja, Lekki Lagos, and Mpape Abuja.

This will help the organisation eliminate diesel reliance, and unlock more than N44 million in annual energy cost savings.

The installations feature advanced hybrid systems, combining solar arrays, lithium battery storage, and smart inverters to provide 24/7 energy for fuel pumps, lighting, and office operations. Each site has reported zero use of electricity or generator power since the systems were installed.

The three NIPCO stations now run on an advanced hybrid solar system that combines high‑efficiency PV panels, intelligent lithium‑battery storage and smart inverters.

Since commissioning, the sites have operated with zero grid or generator power, providing silent, clean, uninterrupted electricity for pumps, lighting and administration.

“We are proud to help NIPCO lead the energy transition at the retail level.

“The scalable architecture can be sized to each location and has already delivered significant savings, about 88,535 kWh/year, N44.4 million in annual cost savings and a 43.8‑tonne reduction in CO₂ emissions,” the Head of JMG’s Hybrid Solar Division, Mr Abbass Hussein, stated, adding that, “Collaborating with NIPCO on this initiative demonstrates a practical pathway for other firms to reduce both emissions and energy expenses.”

Also commenting, NIPCO’s Station Manager at Gwagwalada, Mr Idoko Jacob, said, “The stations have not relied on electricity or generator power on bright-weather days since commissioning. The solar systems fully meet our daily energy needs during such periods. On days with poor weather, we supplement the solar system with generator power to ensure uninterrupted operations.”

Business Post gathered that the NIPCO Gwagwalada Station has a solar output of 42,450 kWh/year, annual savings of N15.6 million, and CO₂ reduction of 15,332.76 kg/year, with a system installed consisting of a 20kW Deye LV Hybrid Inverter, 26.8kWp Solar PV, and 51.2kWh Lithium Battery Storage.

The NIPCO Lekki Station has a solar output of 3,635 kWh/year, annual savings of N12 million, and CO₂ reduction of 13,130.1 kg/year, with a system installed consisting of a 25kW Must Hybrid Inverter, 22.95kWp Solar PV, and 76.8kWh Lithium Battery Storage.

As for the NIPCO Mpape Station, it has a solar output of 42,450 kWh/year, annual savings of N16.8 million, and CO₂ reduction of 15,332.76 kg/year, with a system installed consisting of a 20kW Deye LV Hybrid Inverter, 26.8kWp Solar PV, and 61.44kWh Lithium Battery Storage.