Nigeria: Bolt retracts its N6,000 daily bonus for drivers in Lagos

A ride hailing app, Bolt Nigeria has retracted its N6, 000 daily bonus for drivers in Lagos, a decision that came at a crucial time as strike action is on the horizon in Lagos.

This move has raised concerns among both drivers and commuters, as the bonus had served as a crucial incentive for drivers and its removal could intensify the already tense situation within the ride-hailing sector.

The N6,000 daily bonus, which was previously a reliable source of income for many Bolt drivers, has been significantly impacted by this decision. The looming strike action planned by ride-hailing drivers in Lagos has amplified the impact of the bonus withdrawal, exacerbating the frustrations of drivers.

Comrade Jolaiya Moses, treasurer of the Amalgamated Union of App-based Transport Union of Nigeria (AUATWON), expressed his dismay about the bonus withdrawal: “The N6,000 daily bonus was a lifeline for us. It helped us cover expenses and gave us an incentive to keep working. With its removal, many drivers are feeling demotivated and uncertain about the future. Some drivers have parked their cars. Everyone is going through a hard time.”

Moses added that the removal of the bonus seems aimed at discouraging drivers from joining the upcoming strike, considering it as more of a tactical move than a legitimate response.

The imminent strike action, jointly organized by various ride-hailing driver associations in Lagos, aims to address an array of driver concerns, encompassing issues such as fare reductions, high commissions, and unfavorable working conditions. The removal of the daily bonus by Bolt has further exacerbated driver grievances, escalating tensions within the industry.