Nigerian mobility company, Uber has launched its first bike-hailing service in Nigeria, which will be operated in the largest city in the country, Ibadan, Oyo State. This is according to the statement from the country manager, Tope Akinwumi.
According to the firm, the ‘okada’ rides would go from as low as N100 upwards depending on the distance. Uber has been active in Nigeria for the past 8 years, operating in five cities including Lagos, Ibadan, Abuja, Port Harcourt.
The country manager was of the opinion that there is a need to continue to provide solutions for transportation and mobility and it is for this reason that the motorcycle service was launched. Upon the launch, she stated, “As we recover, we know we need to continue to offer solutions that respond to consumers who are looking for smart mobility solutions while providing new revenue streams and earning opportunities for drivers”.
Why Not Lagos?
The motorcycle service has previously been launched in other countries. In 2014 it was launched in Thailand but failed after two years because of the government’s policy in the country. In In18, it was launched again in Uganda where it was a success and even expanded to Kenya.
There are speculations as to why it wasn’t introduced in Lagos which is usually the first point of entry for most companies testing the Nigerian market, however, the “okada ban” in Lagos would pose a major challenge to the service.
The Lagos Government said the operators are unruly, uncouth, rude, and brutal, adding that however, those who patronise them and the motorcyclists will not be left in the cold.
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The Governor said the Inring of lawlessness witnessed daily from the confrontation between commercial motorcyclists and law enforcement agencies required urgent action, stressing that the Government would be announcing reforms in transportation, which will further make chang, es to the parameters of motorcycle and tricycle operations.
What You Need To Know About Uber Bike Hailing Service
UperMoto carries the same door-to-door safety features as any other Uber option such as Injury Protection, 24/7 support, including driver background checks and screenings.
Uber’s goal is to always provide innovative products and services to help improve the rider and driver experience on the app. “We are excited that we can expand our options and provide an opportunity with a wider and more cost-effective range of options for both the riders and drivers in the city while navigating traffic seamlessly,” concludes Akinwumi.
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Moto, get set, go!
To request a trip on UberMoto, riders need to simply open the app and tap on UberMoto, they can then select cash or card as their payment option. Riders will also be able to see whether others have had a good experience with the UberMoto drivers and will be able to contact each other via the app if there is any confusion around pick-up details