Bolt and inDrive are moving to strengthen their positions in Nigeria’s ride-hailing market following Uber’s sudden departure from the country.

Uber ended its operations in Nigeria on September 2 after about 12 years, citing “evolving business priorities and investment focus across the continent”. The exit has created an opening for rival platforms to attract riders, drivers and mobility investors.

inDrive told TheCable that Nigeria remains a key African market, with its active user base growing consistently year-on-year. The company said it would continue investing in service quality, safety, technology and local communities.

The platform also said its Nigerian operations extend beyond ride-hailing to services including Economy and Courier.

Bolt similarly reaffirmed its commitment to Nigeria, describing the country as an important market. The company said it would continue providing mobility solutions for riders, creating earning opportunities for drivers and supporting the development of Nigeria’s mobility ecosystem.

Teddy Appa-Dankyi, senior general manager of Bolt West Africa, said the company had built a strong community of riders and driver-partners and would focus on strengthening its operations and creating more opportunities.

inDrive offers opening to Uber drivers

inDrive described Uber as a “strong and significant competitor”, saying its departure came as a surprise.

The company said it was willing to welcome drivers and mobility investors affected by Uber’s exit. It is also developing solutions for mobility investors and fleet owners to put vehicles to productive use through its platform.

Unlike Uber’s algorithm-based pricing model, inDrive said it allows drivers and passengers to agree on fares. The company said it charges a service fee of about 10 percent, which it described as one of the lowest in the market.

“This model gives both parties greater control,” the company said.

Drivers seek stronger protection

The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON-NG) has called for social dialogue involving drivers and riders affected by Uber’s departure.

The union also called for national standards covering fares, commissions and deactivation procedures, citing International Labour Organisation Convention No. 193.

Ayoade Ibrahim, the union’s general secretary, said Uber’s exit highlighted the need for stronger rules governing app-based transport workers.

He urged the federal ministries responsible for labour and transportation, as well as airport authorities, to incorporate the convention into relevant licensing frameworks.

According to Ibrahim, the convention would not prevent companies from leaving Nigeria, but could provide greater protection for workers while platforms operate in the country and during market exits.