In the bustling heart of Lagos, where the city's rhythm pulses with rapid transit and daily hustle, one woman is redefining boundaries in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Meet Tofunmi Tolani, a dedicated train driver operating the Blue Line Rail, a feat she describes as both a passion and a journey of self-discovery.

"Honestly, I never grew up saying I wanted to become a train driver," Tolani admits with a smile. "But guess what? Life surprised me."

Her foray into rail transit wasn't planned; she discovered her love for it along the way. "The moment I found myself driving a train, I knew this is it... this is what I love," she shares.

"At first, it felt strange, even scary, but with time it became part of me." Every trip is more than just a routine; it's an opportunity to learn.

"Every trip teaches me something — patience, focus, and even strength," Tolani explains.

However, she emphasises that her job isn't without challenges. "The hours can be so long. The pressure is real," she says frankly.

"But each time I finish a journey, I feel so proud of myself." Being a woman in this field means breaking stereotypes and proving doubters wrong.

"It means breaking limits and also proving I can do what many never thought I could," she asserts.

As the train glides through Lagos, Tolani hopes people see beyond the engines and carriages. "So when you see the train moving, don't just see the couches and the engines — see me, Tolani, a woman with drive, passion, and a story that keeps moving forward," she concludes.

ASA