The removal of fuel subsidy has taken a significant toll on the financial fortunes of commercial sex workers in Kano State. Their struggles were brought to light as they shared their concerns during interviews with a correspondent from the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in the Sabon Gari area of Fagge Local Government Area on Sunday.
Formerly accustomed to thriving earnings, sex workers in the historic commercial city are now grappling with the need to attract customers with astonishingly low fees. Ms. Mercy Benjamin recounted that previously, a round of “short time” services could fetch ₦5,000 within an hour, but the impact of fuel subsidy removal has led to a sharp decline in customer numbers.
Benjamin revealed that the going rate for one round of sex has plummeted to as low as ₦500 to ₦700 for the same services.
“We’re facing significant challenges in this business due to the current economic difficulties,” she said.
Another sex worker, identifying herself as Jennifer, shared that their industry was no longer business as usual. She explained, “My brother, business is no longer moving as it used to be. Customers are hard to come by, and when they do come, the offers are meager.”
Jennifer highlighted the change in circumstances, noting that in the past, she could serve seven to ten customers daily, earning between ₦5,000 and ₦10,000 for short-time services. She reminisced about the days when customers would spend generously, offering well above ₦20,000 along with additional perks like food, drinks, and entertainment.
However, the current reality has forced many of her colleagues into debt, with some having to leave without their possessions as hotels confiscated their belongings due to unpaid bills. Despite the challenges, Jennifer emphasized that those who remain are surviving by the grace of God.
Helen Ediga, positioned on Onitsha Road, expressed her willingness to abandon the profession if given an alternative livelihood. She stated, “I am not happy being into this kind of business. It is hardship that led me into it.” Ediga, a single mother of three, explained that she supports her family through sex work as her partner had left for Abuja with another woman.
The situation has also impacted Kano’s nightlife, with nightclubs, entertainment venues, and bars experiencing a sharp decline in patronage. The economic constraints have led to a drastic reduction in evening outings, as residents grapple with financial challenges.
