Uber, Bolt drivers log off apps in protest over low fares, 25% commission

Thousands of commuters across Lagos may face longer wait times and higher transport costs this week as drivers on ride-hailing platforms including Uber and Bolt begin a three-day strike to protest low fares and rising operating costs. The action, organised by the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), portrays growing tension within Nigeria’s ride-hailing industry as drivers struggle to cope with rising fuel prices, vehicle maintenance costs and platform commissions.

Drivers say their earnings have been squeezed by inflation and higher petrol prices, making it increasingly difficult to sustain operations despite long working hours. Many drivers argue that current fare structures on ride-hailing platforms no longer reflect the economic realities facing transport operators in Nigeria.

The AUATON members say current fare structures and platform commissions no longer reflect the economic realities facing drivers.

Union officials say the strike, which runs for three days, involves drivers temporarily logging off ride-hailing applications as a way of pressing for better pricing conditions and improved welfare for app-based transport workers.

Drivers say their earnings have been significantly eroded by rising fuel prices, vehicle maintenance costs, inflation, and platform commissions, which in some cases remain around 25 percent per trip. With petrol prices and spare-part costs rising sharply in recent years, many drivers say the business has become increasingly difficult to sustain.

According to the union, the protest is aimed at compelling ride-hailing companies to review fare structures, reduce commissions, and introduce policies that better support drivers working on digital transport platforms.

AUATON representatives argue that current pricing models prioritise passenger incentives and discounts while leaving drivers to absorb the bulk of operational costs.

The union is also demanding improved safety protections, insurance coverage, and more transparent engagement between drivers and ride-hailing companies operating in Nigeria.

The strike could disrupt ride-hailing services in major urban centres, particularly Lagos, where thousands of commuters rely daily on app-based transport services.

Ride-hailing platforms such as Uber and Bolt have grown rapidly in Nigeria’s urban transport market over the past decade, offering an alternative to traditional taxis and commercial buses.

However, tensions between drivers and ride-hailing companies have periodically surfaced, especially following the removal of fuel subsidy in 2023 and the sharp rise in petrol prices that followed.