On March 5, 2025, Nigerian ride-hailing drivers launched SimpliRide, a locally developed app designed to challenge the dominance of global ride-hailing giants like Uber and Bolt.
This initiative responds to long-standing grievances over high commission rates and limited driver autonomy on international platforms.
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SimpliRide app challenges ride-hailing giants over commission rates
The introduction of SimpliRide addresses concerns about the high commission rates charged by international ride-hailing platforms, which can reach up to 25 percent of earnings.
In contrast, SimpliRide operates on a subscription model, charging drivers a flat daily fee of N500 ($0.33) instead of deducting a percentage of their earnings. This setup significantly reduces the financial burden on drivers, who often lose substantial commission fees.
SimpliRide also aims to tackle other industry concerns by promising transparency and better driver involvement in decision-making. The app’s developers believe their platform will allow drivers to regain control of their work while improving their income stability.
As Jolaiya Moses, National Treasurer of the App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), noted, “Drivers will not be blocked unjustly. The union will also join the review process to ensure no unfair actions are taken. Welfare programs like health insurance, life insurance, car loans, and car repair loans based on performance are part of the app’s vision”.
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Concerns raised over SimpliRide’s sustainability
Despite the optimism surrounding SimpliRide, some industry stakeholders doubt the app’s sustainability and independence.
Ibrahim Ayoade, General Secretary of AUATON, questioned the capacity of drivers to develop and manage a platform of this scale. “I am perplexed by the idea of drivers creating an app. This is a recurring issue, and the question remains: can drivers develop an app, and if so, in what capacity?”.
SimpliRide faces operational challenges such as inaccurate digital maps, congested roads, and rising fuel prices due to the removal of petrol subsidies.
These issues often result in lower earnings and dissatisfied passengers. However, the app has garnered interest among drivers, with over 500 downloads for its driver app and 100 for its rider app since its availability on the Google Play Store.
The App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON) has endorsed SimpliRide, citing its subscription-based model as a positive change.
“The union is not behind SimpliRide,” Moses clarified. “However, we endorse the app because it does not offer a commission-based structure”. As SimpliRide begins its journey, its success will depend on its ability to attract drivers and riders while overcoming these operational and regulatory challenges.
