Keke in Nigeria – The Three-Wheeled Heart of Nigerian Street Traffic
They rattle, weave through traffic, and are an essential part of the urban landscape: Keke, Nigeria’s three-wheeled motorcycle taxis.
If you’re interested in mobility in Africa, everyday life in Nigeria, or transport in developing countries, you won’t be able to overlook these vehicles.
Known as tuktuks in other countries, the Keke in Nigeria is a culturally rooted means of transportation with a history – and a unique character of its own.
What is a Keke Napep?
Keke Napep is the term used for the motorized three-wheeled taxi in Nigeria. The term “Napep” originates from the government program “National Poverty Eradication Programme”, launched in 2001.
The goal was to provide affordable transportation and create jobs for young people – mainly as a replacement for the previously common bicycle rickshaws (Keke Marwa).
Today, Keke is widespread across Nigeria – from bustling Lagos to smaller cities like Asaba or Minna.
How does the Keke system work in Nigeria?
Kekes are especially popular for short to medium distances within cities.
They usually carry two to four passengers, depending on size and local norms.
Compared to taxis or minibuses (Danfo), Keke is:
- affordable
- fast and agile
- flexible even on bad roads
- readily available in areas without bus access
In many cases, the fare is negotiated in advance, as there are no meters.
Prices may vary, especially during rush hour.
Keke as a Shared Ride – Carpooling on Three Wheels
From personal experience – especially in Lagos – it is common that a Keke does not drive exclusively for one person.
Instead, it’s used like a mini shared taxi.
The driver waits until four passengers with similar destinations are on board – then the ride begins.
This practice lowers costs, eases traffic, and is part of Nigeria’s socially shaped mobility culture.
The route is usually fixed in such cases; detours or private rides are rare.
What color is a Keke? – Regional Differences
Not every Keke looks the same – the color often depends on the region:
- Lagos: predominantly yellow, matching the city’s color system
- Asaba (Delta State): mostly blue
- Abuja: sometimes white or green, depending on the district
- Kano, Kaduna: often green or yellow
- Private areas/rural: also neutral or branded with advertising wraps
These colors are not decorative, but usually mandated by local authorities.
Unlike in Southeast Asia, Nigerian Kekes are not colorfully painted, but rather plain – functionality comes first.
More Than Just a Vehicle – Cultural Context
In Nigeria, a Keke is often more than just a means of transport:
- For many drivers, it’s the foundation of their livelihood
- Kekes are often rented or paid off in installments
- Families rely on them for their daily income
- Some drivers personalize their vehicle with quotes, football logos, or religious symbols
Kekes are therefore also a symbol of entrepreneurship, self-reliance, and social mobility.
Safety Issues and Criticism
In some cities – like Lagos – Kekes have been temporarily banned from city centers in recent years to ease traffic.
Nevertheless, they remain indispensable in suburbs and smaller towns.
There are safety concerns (e.g. no seatbelts), but for many people, the Keke is the only viable option – and often much safer than overloaded buses or motorcycle taxis.
Conclusion: Keke – Mobility with a Life of Its Own
Whether yellow, blue, or white – Keke Napep is more than just a three-wheeled vehicle.
It is part of the social fabric, a response to the gaps in public transport, and a symbol of the resilience and determination of many Nigerians.
It carries not only bodies – but also hopes, conversations, and the rhythm of everyday life.