Airport transport is among the most lucrative segments of Lagos’ taxi industry, driven by a constant flow of international and domestic travellers. Many arriving passengers are willing to pay premium rates for comfort, convenience, and reliability, making airport routes intensely competitive.
This profit potential has attracted both long-established airport taxi operators and app-based ride-hailing companies looking to tap into the high-value market.
Ongoing Clashes Between Traditional Taxis and E-Hailing Drivers
The expansion of e-hailing services around Nigerian airports has repeatedly triggered disputes with registered airport taxi operators. Traditional operators argue that app-based drivers are encroaching on exclusive routes and undermining their income.
These disagreements have, at times, escalated into physical confrontations, forcing regulatory authorities to step in and occasionally disrupt airport transport services.
Why Many Travellers Prefer E-Hailing Services
Despite the tensions, a growing number of passengers say they prefer ride-hailing platforms to airport taxis. This preference became more evident in 2024, after airport taxi services were suspended at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport following internal conflicts among taxi operators.
Travellers cited transparency, predictable pricing, and ease of use as reasons for choosing platforms like Bolt and Uber. Some passengers said they now pre-arrange discreet pickups with familiar drivers to avoid confrontation at the airport.
Pressure on FAAN to Open Airports to E-Hailing Platforms
In response, travellers have urged the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to formally permit e-hailing companies to operate alongside airport taxis.
Passengers believe increased competition would reduce the high fares often charged by airport taxis, which currently benefit from limited competition within airport premises.
Dedicated Airport Parks Proposed for Ride-Hailing Drivers
To resolve recurring conflicts, ride-hailing drivers proposed separate airport parks exclusively for app-based operators. While some argued that ride-hailing apps eliminate the need for physical parks, FAAN eventually approved the idea.
In 2022, FAAN announced plans to allocate parking spaces for e-hailing drivers, with ride-hailing companies expected to pay for access. Among the major platforms, only Bolt agreed to the terms, making it the only ride-hailing company with an officially recognised airport park.
Biometric Screening and Security Clearance Required
Drivers seeking access to the Bolt airport park must complete a strict verification process. This includes biometric fingerprint checks at the Federal Criminal Investigative Department (FCID), Alagbon Police Division in Ikoyi.
After clearance, drivers receive a Police Character Certificate, which is submitted to the Directorate of Aviation Security (AVSEC). AVSEC then issues an official identity card, granting permission to pick up passengers at the airport, similar to the requirements for licensed airport taxi drivers.
₦45,000 Access Fee Sparks Driver Protests
In 2024, controversy erupted when FAAN proposed a ₦45,000 access fee for e-hailing drivers operating at airport facilities.
The proposal sparked protests led by the Amalgamated Union of App-based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), which argued the fee was excessive. Following the protests, the plan was suspended, and driver leaders later confirmed that no access fees are currently charged beyond biometric registration.
Controversy Over Bolt-Branded Safety Vests
Another dispute emerged later in 2024 after claims that Bolt required drivers using the airport park to wear branded reflective vests. Drivers who operate across multiple platforms, such as Uber, InDrive, and Rida, criticised the move as an attempt to dominate airport ride-hailing services.
While some drivers complied, others resisted. Driver representatives later clarified that wearing Bolt-branded vests is optional, and access to the park is not restricted based on attire.
Nigeria’s Airport Transport Ecosystem Is Evolving
Bolt’s successful entry into airport operations highlights a gradual shift in Nigeria’s airport transport landscape. While traditional airport taxis still hold significant ground, rising passenger demand for app-based services and regulatory compromises suggest a move toward coexistence.
As demand for digital mobility solutions grows, FAAN’s approach to balancing safety, competition, and fairness will play a decisive role in shaping the future of airport transportation across Nigeria.
