Uber Increases Fares To Cover Cost Of Fuel Subsidy Removal

E-hailing platform, Uber Nigeria has announced an increase in fares to help drivers cover the recent increase in fuel costs and inflation rate.

Uber, in a statement attributed by Tope Akinwumi, Country Manager for Uber in Nigeria, said the fare adjustment is to help drivers cover rising operating costs and is part of the ongoing efforts to support their driver community.

“Drivers are at the heart of everything we do, and we continue to work on initiatives and engage with drivers to help make Uber the app of choice for drivers while maintaining an affordable service for riders.

“Following an in-depth review of the current fuel subsidy removal, Uber updated fares on the 3rd and 9th of June on the app to reflect existing economic conditions.

“We believe these changes have helped better support drivers in increasing their earning opportunities. Furthermore, we lowered the service fee in February 2022 from 25% to 20% to help enable better-earning opportunities for drivers.

“We want the best for drivers who operate on the Uber platform and frequently engage with them directly through roundtables, surveys, phone, and in-app channels to better understand and receive feedback on the realities they face in their businesses,” Akinkunmi said in the statement.

The company also said that it is constantly monitoring local dynamics to see what changes can be implemented and when.

Uber further explained that its service fee ensures the running of the Uber App and helps it maintain and make continuous investments to enhance its technology designed to meet the needs of riders and drivers.

It noted that drivers on its platform earn more than other ride-hailing platforms in Nigeria.