When Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang introduced the Jos Metro buses as an additional transportation intervention to bring relief to residents and ease their commuting nightmare as a result of the rising cost of fuel, little did anyone know that there would be a pleasant surprise in the offing.
By every understanding, the task of driving such big and complicated buses should normally be the preserve of male drivers due to the strain and energy it would take to maneuver through the busy streets of the city.
However, what many did not envisage was that some daring young ladies would take the bold steps by breaking the glass ceiling and taking on jobs that many believed were the preserve of men alone.
The duo of Nanbam Luka and Deborah Ogwurumbaike (Debby) were the first set of women to break the traditional glass ceiling and became the first female metro bus drivers employed by the state government.
Nanbam particularly drew wide attention and applause when she made history as the first female Metro Bus driver in Jos, with her employment with the Plateau Express Services, the operators of the Tin City Metro Buses. Nanbam was celebrated by state officials and citizens, especially women who saw her as a role model and a trailblazer for other young ladies.
Her employment was also celebrated as a major win for female inclusion in public governance, especially in the proverbial male-dominated professions.
The strength, resilience, industrious spirit, and friendliness exhibited by Nanbam and Debby in the course of their duties have earned them respect, commendation, and goodwill from many Metro Bus passengers. Their calmness, kindness, patience, commitment to duty, understanding, and willingness to assist people, especially during rush hours when commuters are often stranded, are virtues that have endeared them to passengers.
Stepping into one of the Metro Buses and meeting these young ladies at the wheels must have brought surprises on the faces of many commuters, but the dexterity and ease with which they handle the steering often brings relief to passengers who have had nothing but praises for them.
One of such satisfied passengers,
Jimmy Pam Jerry (PJ) took the time to put up a passionate and moving eulogy in praise of Deborah, and the piece was so touching that many were moved to tears.
“There is dignity in every honest labour, for work done with joy and integrity is the foundation of personal fulfilment and societal progress,” he wrote.
“Permit me to share my personal experiences on board the Metro Bus service operating within Jos Township, Jos–Bukuru, and Heipang routes, which I use virtually every week.
“The introduction of the Metro Bus scheme is a deliberate initiative of the Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang aimed at providing affordable transportation for residents, especially following the removal of fuel subsidies, which led to a sharp increase in transportation costs.
“The buses offer subsidized fares that are significantly cheaper than regular commercial transport services. Beyond easing transportation challenges, the Metro Bus initiative has created employment opportunities for many young people across the state, thanks to Gov. Caleb Mutfwang.
“However, this type of service requires patience, perseverance, professionalism, courtesy, and effective public relations among drivers, bus attendants, supervisors, and passengers.
“Many passengers will agree that while some Metro Bus personnel demonstrate excellent customer relations, others appear to lack the necessary job etiquette and interpersonal skills.
“Consequently, passengers sometimes leave buses feeling frustrated and dissatisfied. On the other hand, some drivers and attendants distinguish themselves through their professionalism and respectful engagement with passengers, thereby making every trip worthwhile.
“Today, like many other days, I arrived at the Zawan Junction bus stop at about 4:00p.m. By 4:40p.m., passengers had become visibly tired from waiting for a Metro Bus. At about 5:10 p.m., three buses arrived from Jos, made U-turns, and continued their journeys without stopping, despite desperate attempts by waiting passengers to flag them down. Some drivers and attendants simply waved as they passed.
“The passengers assumed that the buses had already closed operations for the day, even though the official closing time was 6:00 p.m. Shortly afterward, another Metro Bus approached from Jos. Behind the wheel was a smiling female driver.
Before she could even park to allow passengers on board to alight, those waiting at the bus stop became excited and began saying, “If it’s Debby, she will definitely stop for us. Six o’clock has not yet come.”
As though she had heard their conversation, she made a U-turn and carefully approached the bus stop. By then, it was about 5:20p.m.
“Driving alone, she stopped and politely addressed the waiting passengers. With remarkable courtesy, she explained that she would only go as far as Old Airport Junction so she could return to Rayfield and park the bus before closing time.
The passengers responded with applause and appreciation.
“Everyone boarded happily, and Debby continued her journey, stopping at designated bus stops to pick up and drop off passengers along the route.
Inside the bus, a woman identified simply as Esther and her seatmate began discussing Debby’s outstanding service. They spoke glowingly about her willingness to assist stranded commuters and contrasted her conduct with that of some other personnel.
“When I asked for their names, Esther briefly showed me her identification card and remarked:
“We have a lot to tell the management of Plateau Riders about some of these drivers, attendants, and even supervisors. They should invite passengers regularly to share complaints and suggestions. Some workers are outstanding at their jobs, while others perform poorly because they believe they are working with government vehicles.”
“Mistaking me for a staff member, she continued sharing her observations. As the conversation progressed, we all enjoyed the cruise ride, almost forgetting that the discussion had been inspired by Debby’s magnanimity and professionalism.
“Upon reaching Old Airport Junction at approximately 5:55p.m., Debby continued further before eventually stopping at Dogon Karfe Bus Stop. By then, it was already 6:06p.m.
“With her usual calmness and courtesy, she addressed the passengers: “Please, I will stop here and proceed through Abattoir to Rayfield because it is already closing time. The passengers expressed their appreciation and gratitude for her understanding and willingness to go the extra mile, which has saved them a lot of expenses.
“Before alighting, I walked up to her, shook her hand, and thanked her for the commendations she had received from passengers throughout the journey. I introduced myself and requested her full name, as well as a photograph, which she graciously agreed to while seated behind the steering wheel.
“I believe it would be beneficial for the management of Plateau Express Services, Plateau Riders, and the Ministry of Transportation to dedicate an hour-long radio programme periodically to receive feedback, complaints, and suggestions from passengers. While some commuters can be difficult and occasionally provocative, customer service remains a vital component of public transportation.
“To the Honourable Commissioner for Transportation, Hon. Davou Gyang, and Hon. Samuel Gwott, MD, Plateau Express Services, I proudly present Deborah Ogwurumbaike as a worthy recipient of a Merit Award for Excellence, in recognition of her diligence, professionalism, and outstanding commitment to duty.
“Rewarding hard work, excellence, and professionalism will not only boost staff morale but will also encourage other Metro Bus personnel to improve their performance. Such recognition can help raise service standards and ultimately enhance the effectiveness and revenue generation of the Metro Bus system.
“There are undoubtedly many other hardworking Metro Bus drivers, attendants, and security personnel deserving of recognition. However, today, the spotlight belongs to Deborah Ogwurumbaike. Dear Debby, please take your flowers!”
With such a glowing tribute, there is no gainsaying that Nanbam and Debby have successfully opened a new vista for women by breaking the glass ceiling in a profession that was hitherto seen as male-dominated. And from the look of things, it is a matter of time before other female drivers join them!