(Passengers at The Airport. Photo by Channels Tv)
Nigeria’s airport authority says it hasn’t completely banned Uber and Bolt from airport operations.
Rather, it’s working with the ride-hailing companies to set up rules that allow them to operate while meeting airport requirements.
The clarification came after reports and concerns about the status of these services at Nigerian airports.
The authority said its position isn’t meant to restrict passengers’ transportation choices or downplay the importance of ride-hailing services.
Airports are heavily regulated environments, so every commercial transportation service operating there needs to have proper arrangements.
This allows the airport to keep track of vehicles and drivers, and to respond quickly if security or passenger issues arise.
The authority said it received complaints about touting and passenger solicitation at airport terminals and surroundings.
These concerns make it necessary to have clear rules for managing transportation at the airport.
The authority is currently discussing with Uber, Bolt and other operators to develop a workable framework that recognizes the value of their services while addressing safety, security and passenger experience requirements.
The authority also clarified that its ACHRAMS system a platform for tracking vehicles and managing airport charges is not designed to compete with Uber and Bolt.
It’s simply a tool for visibility and coordination within the airport.
Discussions between the airport authority and the ride-hailing companies are ongoing, and officials said they expect to reach an agreement soon.
The priority, they said, is keeping passengers safe and giving them convenient transportation options.
