Ride-hailing services across Lagos may experience significant disruptions as the Lagos State chapter of the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria announced a three-day strike beginning Sunday, citing worsening working conditions and fares they describe as unsustainable.
The announcement was made during a press conference in Lagos by the union’s Public Relations Officer, Steven Iwindoye, who said the industrial action was necessary to draw attention to the growing economic hardship faced by app-based drivers.
According to him, many drivers operating through ride-hailing platforms are struggling to stay afloat due to increasing operational expenses and declining earnings.
The strike is expected to affect drivers using popular ride-hailing platforms including Uber, Bolt, inDrive and the Lagos State-backed service Lagride.
Iwindoye explained that the decision followed months of complaints from drivers who say their income has been severely impacted by the current economic climate.
“Drivers operating on these platforms are battling rising operational costs such as high fuel prices, increased vehicle maintenance, inflation and general living expenses,” he said.
He noted that while expenses continue to rise, the fares offered on ride-hailing platforms have not kept pace with the economic realities, leaving drivers with little profit after deducting operational costs.
The union said many drivers are now finding it increasingly difficult to maintain their vehicles, repay car loans and meet basic household needs.
According to the union, the strike aims to push ride-hailing companies to review fare structures, reduce commission charges and implement policies that would ensure drivers earn a more sustainable income.
Iwindoye also pointed out that drivers have repeatedly engaged with platform operators to address the issues, but claimed that their concerns have largely remained unresolved.
He added that the union believes the temporary withdrawal of services will highlight the importance of drivers in the ride-hailing ecosystem and encourage meaningful dialogue with platform companies.
During the three-day strike, drivers affiliated with the union are expected to stay offline from the platforms, which could lead to fewer available vehicles and longer waiting times for commuters across Lagos.
The union urged passengers and members of the public to understand the reason behind the action, noting that the protest is not aimed at inconveniencing commuters but rather at ensuring fair working conditions for drivers.
Industry observers say the strike reflects broader concerns within Nigeria’s gig economy, where workers often operate as independent contractors without many of the protections associated with traditional employment.
As the strike begins, attention is likely to focus on how ride-hailing companies respond to the union’s demands and whether negotiations will take place before the planned three-day action concludes.
