Lagos, Nigeria – In a move aimed at addressing the challenges faced by drivers due to inflation and a recent fuel price hike, Uber Nigeria has officially announced an increase in fares between June 3rd and June 6th.
The decision by Uber Nigeria reflects the company’s dedication to providing improved earning opportunities for its drivers, while still ensuring an affordable and reliable service for riders.
The fare adjustment comes as a response to rising operating costs and is part of Uber’s ongoing commitment to supporting its driver community. The increase in fares is intended to assist drivers in covering the escalating expenses they face on a daily basis.
According to Tope Akinwumi, the Country Manager for Uber in Nigeria, the decision to update fares was made after a thorough evaluation of the current economic conditions, particularly the removal of fuel subsidies. Akinwumi emphasized that drivers are at the core of Uber’s operations, and the company continuously engages with them through various means to better understand their needs and challenges.
Uber Nigeria has been proactive in implementing measures to bolster driver earnings. In February 2022, the company reduced its service fee from 25% to 20%, providing drivers with enhanced earning opportunities. Akinwumi stressed that Uber maintains a constant dialogue with drivers, utilizing roundtables, surveys, and in-app communication channels to obtain feedback and ensure the platform remains the preferred choice for drivers.
The fare increase is primarily intended to mitigate the impact of fuel price hikes, rather than cover the entire cost. Uber clarified that it carefully monitors local dynamics to identify the appropriate timing for implementing changes.
Highlighting its commitment to both drivers and riders, Uber stated that its service fee plays a crucial role in supporting the functionality of the Uber app, enabling continuous investments in technology to enhance the overall experience for all users.
Uber Nigeria remains a dominant player in the country’s ride-hailing market, offering a range of services including UberX, Uber Comfort, Uber Greenlight Hubs, and Uber Cash. While facing competition from other platforms like Bolt, InDrive, and Gokada, Uber continues to prioritize the welfare of its driver community to maintain its position as a preferred choice for both drivers and riders.
