In Nigeria’s bustling cities and beyond, hiring a private driver has become an increasingly popular option for both locals and expatriates. Whether for daily commutes, business meetings, or exploring the country, a private driver offers convenience, safety, and local knowledge. But what does this service actually cost in 2025? Let’s break down the expenses based on data from IntercityNG’s charter service.
Understanding Private Driver Options in Nigeria
Before diving into costs, it’s important to understand the different arrangements available:
- Full-time dedicated drivers: Employed directly, usually monthly salary
- Daily hire drivers: Available on a day-by-day basis
- Charter services: Professional drivers from established companies
- App-based driver services: Available through platforms like IntercityNG
How IntercityNG’s Charter Service Works
IntercityNG offers two primary ways to arrange charter services:
1. Request for Offers
This personalized option allows you to:
- Fill out a detailed form specifying your exact requirements
- Provide your intended routes and destinations
- Indicate the number of passengers traveling
- Specify whether it’s a one-way or round trip
- Set your budget for the journey
- Receive customized offers based on your specific needs
2. Browse Available Offers
If you prefer to compare options immediately:
- Browse pre-arranged offers for popular routes
- View detailed pricing from various bus operators
- Compare vehicle types, amenities, and prices
- Select the option that best fits your budget and requirements
This dual approach gives travelers flexibility to either specify exactly what they need or quickly choose from established options.
Average Costs of Private Drivers in Nigeria
Actual pricing is heavily dependent on the specific routes selected and the operators available for those routes. Popular routes like Lagos-Ibadan may have more competitive pricing due to higher operator availability, while less-traveled routes might command premium prices.
Additionally, different operators offer varying levels of service quality, vehicle condition, and driver experience, all of which affect the final price point. These rates generally include the driver’s fee, but fuel costs are typically calculated separately based on distance traveled.
Cost-Saving Strategies
To maximize value when hiring a private driver:
1. Advance Booking
Booking through the IntercityNG platform several days in advance often secures better rates than last-minute arrangements.
2. Off-Peak Timing
Avoiding high-demand periods (business hours, weekends) can result in more competitive pricing.
The Value Proposition
While hiring a private driver represents a significant expense, many find the investment worthwhile for:
- Productivity: Work or relax during commutes instead of driving
- Local knowledge: Navigate unfamiliar areas efficiently
- Safety: Reduce personal risk in challenging traffic conditions
- Vehicle maintenance: Avoid wear and tear on personal vehicles
- Stress reduction: Eliminate parking challenges and traffic stress
Conclusion
The cost of hiring a private driver in Nigeria typically ranges from ₦15,000 to ₦40,000 daily depending on vehicle type, location, and service level, with additional costs for fuel and overtime. For those requiring regular service, monthly arrangements through platforms like IntercityNG offer better value, with rates between ₦250,000-₦400,000 for full-time dedicated service.
While not inexpensive, many professionals, businesses, and visitors find that the convenience, safety, and productivity benefits justify the investment. The growing number of services like IntercityNG makes comparing options and finding the right balance of quality and affordability easier than ever.
Have you hired a private driver in Nigeria? What was your experience with the cost and service quality?
by