LAGOS, Nigeria — Uber Technologies has reiterated its readiness to engage with drivers following a multi-day strike by app-based transport operators that has disrupted ride-hailing services across Nigeria’s commercial capital.
The protest, which began on Monday and extended through Wednesday, has affected major platforms including Bolt and inDrive, as drivers collectively withdrew their services by logging off the apps.
Okay News reports that the action has significantly reduced the availability of rides in Lagos, leaving commuters struggling to secure transport in one of Africa’s busiest urban centres.
Drivers involved in the strike say their decision was driven by rising fuel and maintenance costs, declining earnings, and what they describe as unfavourable working conditions on digital ride-hailing platforms.
They have called for an upward review of fares, reduced commission charges by platform operators, and improved protections for drivers operating within the gig economy.
In response, Uber emphasised the importance of continued engagement with drivers, describing them as central to its operations.
“Drivers are at the heart of our business, and we remain committed to engaging constructively with them through regular roundtable discussions,” the company said in a statement.
The company also highlighted the need to balance the interests of both drivers and riders within its platform ecosystem.
“Uber operates an incredibly large and dynamic marketplace, but it only works when it works for all users, riders and drivers. Aligning our joint interests is a fundamental principle in how we run our platform,” it added.
