The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has clarified that Uber, Bolt and other e-hailing services have not been banned from operating at Nigerian airports. It said ongoing discussions with the operators are aimed at creating a framework that ensures passenger safety, security and orderly airport operations.
FAAN said it was not trying to limit passengers’ transportation options or undermine e-hailing platforms. Rather, it wants commercial transport providers operating within airport premises to be properly integrated into its operational and security system.
The authority explained that airports are highly regulated environments and that it needs adequate visibility over commercial vehicles and drivers. Such a framework, it said, would ensure transport providers are identifiable, accountable and able to operate within established airport security requirements.
The clarification follows public criticism and reports of restrictions affecting e-hailing services at some FAAN-managed airports, including the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
FAAN also clarified that its Airport Car Hire Rank Management System, ACHRAMS, is not designed to compete with Uber, Bolt or other e-hailing platforms. The digital system was introduced to modernise airport ground transportation, improve passenger safety, provide operational tracking and manage applicable airport charges.
According to the authority, complaints about passenger solicitation, touting and other operational challenges around airport premises made it necessary to establish a clearer framework for commercial transportation. FAAN said it was engaging e-hailing operators to develop mutually acceptable arrangements covering safety, security, accountability and the management of passenger pick-ups.
FAAN said the current situation should not be interpreted as a blanket prohibition of e-hailing services and acknowledged the inconvenience some passengers may have experienced. It expressed confidence that ongoing discussions with Uber, Bolt and other mobility providers would soon produce an agreement that allows passengers to continue accessing safe, convenient and seamless transportation at Nigerian airports.
