Bolt to Resume Operations Across Nigerian Airports After Passenger Backlash
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has cleared the ride-hailing platform Bolt to resume immediate operations across all FAAN-managed airports following a temporary suspension that sparked widespread passenger outrage over surging transport costs.
The aviation authority officially apologised to commuters for the massive inconvenience caused by the service disruption, which left thousands of travellers stranded or forced to pay exorbitant fees for traditional airport car-hire services.
Key Highlights of the FAAN-Bolt Agreement
Bolt has reached a sustainable operational framework with FAAN and is cleared to pick up passengers at airports effective immediately.
The airport authority is also holding ongoing talks with Uber and other e-hailing platforms, with resolutions expected in the coming days.
FAAN reiterated that passengers are fully free to choose their preferred mode of airport transport.
What Sparked the Airport Transport Crisis?
The crisis began when FAAN introduced the Airport Car Hire Rank Management System (ACHRAMS)—a digital queue-management system designed to curb illegal passenger solicitation, touting, and security vulnerabilities at airport terminals.
However, the rollout inadvertently blocked e-hailing apps, forcing passengers to rely entirely on traditional airport taxis. This triggered heavy public backlash as commuters complained about the stark price difference between regular e-hailing fares and the rigid airport taxi rates.
FAAN Sets the Record Straight on Fares
Addressing the public outcry, Henry Agbebire, FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, clarified that the authority did not hike transport fares. “The fares highlighted in recent public discussions were not rates newly imposed by FAAN or created by ACHRAMS. What ACHRAMS introduced was greater visibility and transparency around the prevailing airport-taxi rates, making the cost more readily apparent to passengers.”
FAAN acknowledged that comparing the traditional rates to the cheaper e-hailing options understandably heightened public concern. The authority maintained that its intervention was strictly driven by airport safety, regulatory compliance, and security—not economic exploitation or creating a monopoly.
With the resolution, Bolt users can now seamlessly book rides from the airport. The authority assured travellers that its primary focus remains ensuring a safe, secure, orderly, and affordable airport environment.
