The Rise of Ride-Hailing as a Safety Solution in Nigeria
A recent report titled the Ride-Hailing Safety Index, commissioned by Bolt and conducted by Ipsos, has revealed that 81% of Nigerian passengers view ride-hailing services as safer than traditional transport options. This highlights the increasing trust in app-based mobility solutions and their role in improving personal safety across urban areas.
The study was conducted through surveys in major cities such as Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Ibadan. It aimed to understand how perceptions of safety influence transportation choices. The findings were shared during a press briefing hosted by Bolt in Lagos, where it was emphasized that Nigerians primarily choose ride-hailing for its safety and convenience.
Safety as a Primary Motivation
According to the report, nearly all respondents (96%) opt for ride-hailing when public transport feels unsafe. This is especially true during late-night travel, in unfamiliar areas, or after consuming alcohol. Additionally, 94% of participants have booked rides for family members or friends to ensure their safe return home.
Two-thirds of respondents (66%) believe that ride-hailing apps help reduce drunk driving by providing a reliable and accessible alternative. These insights show that ride-hailing services are not just a convenience but also a critical tool in promoting road safety.
Demographics and Usage Patterns
The survey also highlighted key demographic trends. Women make up 70% of ride-hailing users in Nigeria, with the largest group aged between 25 and 34 years. Most passengers use the service several times a week, indicating that ride-hailing has become an essential part of daily mobility for many urban dwellers.
Safety-enhancing features such as real-time GPS tracking (62%), driver verification (58%), and trip sharing (49%) were identified as key tools that increase passenger confidence. These features contribute to a sense of security and control, which are crucial for user trust.
Key Factors Influencing Trust
The research underscores that visibility, accountability, and traceability are the strongest factors influencing users’ trust in app-based transport. These elements create a transparent system that reassures passengers about their safety and the reliability of the service.
At the event, which brought together government representatives, mobility experts, and safety advocates, Osi Oguah, General Manager of Bolt Nigeria, emphasized the company’s commitment to safety. He stated, “Safety is at the core of everything we do at Bolt. This research gives us valuable insight into how Nigerians experience and perceive safety when using ride-hailing. We’ll continue to invest in technology, partnerships, and awareness to ensure every ride on Bolt is not only affordable and reliable but also safe.”
Government and Industry Perspectives
The Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, who was represented by the Director Transport Operations, Ministry of Transport Lagos, praised Bolt for commissioning the independent safety perception study. He noted, “The decision by Bolt to commission an independent safety perception study is commendable and forward thinking. It demonstrates a genuine commitment to listening to users, understanding their concerns, and continuously improving the ride-hailing experience. This reflects the spirit of partnership that drives our collective progress in the transport sector.”
Expert Insights
Stephanie Kanyiri, representing Ipsos, added, “The findings reflect an encouraging trend, Nigerians increasingly see ride-hailing as a trusted and secure mobility option. Safety features that enhance visibility, accountability, and control are major drivers of confidence among passengers, especially in urban centers.”
Conclusion
As ride-hailing continues to evolve, the emphasis on safety remains a central factor in its growth and acceptance. With ongoing investments in technology and user education, companies like Bolt are setting new standards for safe and reliable mobility in Nigeria. The data from this report reinforces the importance of addressing safety concerns and building trust through transparency and innovation.