The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria, AUATON, has condemned Uber’s sudden withdrawal from Nigeria’s ride-hailing market, describing the decision as unprofessional and a setback for thousands of drivers operating on its platform.
The union also warned other major ride-hailing companies, particularly Bolt and InDrive, against what it described as exploitative practices, urging them to engage drivers through genuine collective bargaining.
AUATON National Spokesperson, Jossy Adaraniwon, made the position known in a statement following Uber’s announcement that it would cease its ride-hailing operations in Nigeria.
Adaraniwon alleged that Uber exited the Nigerian market without adequate notice to drivers or a transition plan, describing the development as irresponsible and disrespectful to the drivers who helped build the company’s local operations.
According to him, Uber’s departure was linked to what the union considers an unsustainable business model that placed insufficient emphasis on workers’ rights, fair compensation and collective bargaining.
He further alleged that Bolt and InDrive had adopted some of the practices associated with Uber, creating what he described as a “race-to-the-bottom” in the ride-hailing industry.
The union claimed that the situation had contributed to declining driver earnings, longer passenger waiting times and a reduction in the number of active drivers due to concerns over working conditions.
AUATON therefore called on Bolt and InDrive to open discussions with the union and establish formal mechanisms for collective bargaining.
Adaraniwon warned that platforms that failed to address drivers’ concerns could face similar difficulties to those that preceded Uber’s exit.
He said the union wanted AUATON formally recognised as the collective bargaining representative for app-based transporters across the country.
Among its demands, the union listed fair remuneration, welfare packages, greater transparency, improved safety measures and decent working conditions consistent with International Labour Organisation standards.
The spokesperson also urged drivers who belong to the union not to be discouraged by Uber’s departure but to remain united and support ride-hailing platforms willing to enter into collective agreements.
While warning Bolt and InDrive that “time is running out,” Adaraniwon said AUATON remained open to dialogue with the two companies.
The union also made further allegations against Uber, claiming that the company had opposed its labour activities and petitioned the Federal Ministry of Labour over its registration.
Adaraniwon additionally alleged that Uber had sponsored individuals within AUATON to create internal divisions and frustrate discussions over drivers’ welfare. He did not provide details or evidence for the allegations in the statement.
He said the union would not accept a situation where foreign ride-hailing companies operate in Nigeria, benefit from the work of Nigerian drivers and leave the country without accountability.
Uber announced on Wednesday that it would discontinue its ride-hailing operations in Nigeria, bringing an end to its presence in a market where it had operated for years.
The development has intensified attention on the future of Nigeria’s app-based transport sector, particularly over driver welfare, regulation, competition and the sustainability of ride-hailing business models.
