On May 1, 2025, thousands of ride-hailing drivers across Nigeria, operating under platforms like Uber, Bolt, inDrive, Lagride, and Rida, embarked on a 24-hour strike to protest against low fares, high commissions, and unfavorable working conditions.  The action, organized by the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), coincided with International Workers’ Day.  

Approximately 5,000 drivers participated in the strike, logging off their apps and refraining from accepting rides.  AUATON's Lagos chapter highlighted issues such as commission rates as high as 25-30%, fares as low as ₦1,200 for 10km trips, and rising fuel costs following the 2023 subsidy removal.  

The union's demands include:

Reducing commission rates to 5%

Granting drivers autonomy over pricing

Ensuring safer working conditions

Recognizing drivers as legitimate stakeholders in the transport sector

In response, Bolt expressed willingness to engage in discussions with driver representatives to address their concerns.  

The strike reflects growing dissatisfaction among gig economy workers in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for fair labor practices and better working conditions in the ride-hailing industry.