Uber Reports ₦6.1bn Annual Driver Earnings Amid Lagos Strike
Lagos, Nigeria — Uber Technologies Inc. has revealed that its platform supports approximately ₦6.1 billion in collective annual earnings for drivers in Nigeria, even as app‑based transport operators continued a strike in Lagos, the country’s most populous city and commercial hub.
The walkout, which began earlier this week and stretched into Wednesday, saw drivers for major digital ride‑hailing platforms — including Uber, Bolt and inDrive — logging off their apps in protest. According to union leaders, the strike was sparked by rising operational costs, low fares and challenging working conditions, which they say make it increasingly difficult to sustain their incomes.
In response, Uber highlighted findings from its 2023 Economic Impact Report for Nigeria, noting that the platform continues to play a “meaningful role” in supporting earning opportunities for drivers nationwide. The ₦6.1 billion figure reflects additional income estimated to be generated through the use of the Uber app, though the company clarified that individual earnings vary based on factors such as hours worked, trips completed and operating expenses.
“Drivers are at the heart of our business,” Uber stated, emphasising the company’s commitment to constructive engagement with driver partners. It said it regularly holds roundtable discussions and uses surveys and other feedback channels to better understand the realities faced by drivers.
The ongoing strike has notably reduced ride availability across Lagos, underscoring tensions that have simmered in the fast‑growing ride‑hailing sector. This is not the first time drivers have taken industrial action; past walkouts have centred on complaints about low fares, high commission charges and increased cost pressures, particularly in the wake of broader economic challenges in Nigeria.
As the strike continues, stakeholders including the Lagos State House of Assembly are beginning to respond. The assembly has said it will review a petition from e‑hailing drivers seeking legislative interventions to address issues such as insecurity, operational challenges and regulatory concerns within the sector.
Industry observers say the dispute highlights the broader struggle within app‑based transport markets to balance platform profitability with fair driver compensation, amid rising living costs and shifting economic conditions. How the situation unfolds could influence future fare structures, commission policies and the overall working environment for ride‑hailing drivers in Nigeria.
