27-Year-Old Nigerian Makes History As She Becomes UAE’s First Female Delivery Rider

A Nigerian woman has made history in faraway UAE  after becoming the country’s first female delivery rider.

27-year-old Gift Solomon moved to the Emirates from Nigeria in 2015 to make money for her family.

She works as an assistant manager for Freedom Pizza in Dubai and has chosen to also work on the delivery side of the business.

She said she was passionate about her work, and enjoyed being out on the road.

“The best time for me to actually think is when I’m driving; it’s a time to think about everything, about home, about where I was before. When I’m on the road, I’m free,” she said.

“Delivering food is not just about delivering to people. For me, it’s an opportunity to be part of someone’s day.”

Gift said she took up the job to support her parents.

“I am driving for my family. I am a daughter, and I want to support them [parents],” she said.

She does not believe the role is the prerogative of men.

“I really want to see more women join me. Instead of saying ‘Hey brother’ when I’m out on the Freedom bike, I want to say, ‘Hey sister, I am doing it. You can too.’”

The pizza company, in a statement to The National, confirmed it was the only organisation employing a female motorbike delivery driver.

The company said it had ” conducted their due diligence before confirming this milestone”.