A Nigerian ride-hailing driver has appealed to Bolt and inDrive to increase their fares, lamenting that the money he earns after working long hours is no longer enough to cover his operating expenses and provide for his family.
The driver, whose identity was not disclosed, made the appeal in a video circulating on social media, where he described the financial difficulties he faces despite spending the night transporting passengers.
According to him, he purchased fuel worth ₦80,000 but earned only ₦60,000 from trips completed on both platforms, leaving him with no money to take home after accounting for his expenses.
The driver explained that he has a wife and four children to cater for, including paying school fees, providing food and maintaining his vehicle.
He urged inDrive to review its pricing structure, accusing the platform of making it increasingly difficult for drivers to earn a sustainable income. He also appealed to Bolt to increase its fares to reflect the rising cost of running vehicles.
His complaint has drawn attention to the growing financial pressure on ride-hailing drivers, who must cover fuel, vehicle repairs, tyres, insurance and other expenses while meeting their household responsibilities.
The development comes amid wider concerns among app-based transport operators over fare structures, platform commissions and working conditions. Drivers in Lagos have also called for changes to the pricing system, arguing that rising operating costs are eating into their earnings.
The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria has urged drivers on Bolt and inDrive in Lagos to withdraw their services over disputes involving fares, commissions and welfare. Bolt has expressed willingness to engage with the union and discuss the concerns raised by drivers.
The driver’s appeal has reignited debate over how ride-hailing companies can balance affordable fares for passengers with sustainable earnings for the people providing the service.
