Uber, Bolt Drivers in Nigeria Plan May 1 Strike Over Low Pay

Uber, Bolt, and other app-based ride-hailing drivers in Lagos are set to down tools on May 1, 2025, in a 24-hour strike aimed at protesting low fares, high platform commissions, and poor working conditions.

The planned walkout is expected to affect major platforms including Uber, Bolt, Lagride, inDrive, and Rida.

The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON) confirmed the industrial action in a statement issued Tuesday, April 22.

The union said over 5,000 drivers would participate by logging off their apps and staying off the roads in a coordinated effort to disrupt operations.

“Despite repeated attempts at dialogue, these companies have continued to prioritise profit over the welfare of drivers,” AUATON said.

“They’ve ignored our demands for fair compensation, safer working conditions, and the recognition of our rights as workers.”

Drivers complain that current fare structures are no longer viable, especially in light of Nigeria’s rising fuel prices following the 2023 removal of petrol subsidies.

Many drivers say they now earn as little as ₦1,200 for a 10-kilometre trip, while still surrendering 25% to 30% of their income in platform commissions.

The protest is part of a broader push to reform Nigeria’s $273 million ride-hailing market, according to Steven Iwindoye, the union’s public relations officer.

“This action goes beyond just taking a day off,” Iwindoye said. “It’s a movement to unite ride-hailing workers and demand the dignity and fairness they deserve in a digital economy built on their backs.”

The planned strike coincides with International Workers’ Day and mirrors recent protests by gig economy workers in the United States and South Africa.

AUATON also announced plans to establish a formal negotiation framework after the strike, working alongside labour groups to secure lasting reforms in the industry.