NLC Challenges Uber, Bolt Over High Commission Fees Amid Driver Welfare Crisis

As agitation for improved welfare among ride-hailing drivers intensifies, the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a stern challenge to global taxi app giants Uber, Bolt, and inDrive, questioning the justification for the hefty commissions they collect from Nigerian drivers.

At a joint press briefing held in Lagos with the leadership of the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON) Lagos Council, Chairperson of the Lagos NLC chapter, Comrade Agnes Sessi, decried the existing commission structure — which ranges from 20% to 30% per trip — as exploitative and unsustainable.

Drivers Bearing the Burden

According to Comrade Sessi, the current model unfairly shifts all operational costs to drivers while giving app companies a large share of the income with minimal involvement or accountability.

“The app companies don’t provide vehicles, don’t fuel them, don’t maintain them. Drivers do all that — they even settle with law enforcement agencies and cover documentation. Yet, these companies deduct up to 30% from every trip,” she said.

Sessi added that many drivers earn as little as ?5,000 daily after working long hours, often from dawn to dusk, with no health coverage or safety protections in place. She noted several cases where drivers collapsed from exhaustion or were left vulnerable to attacks without any form of insurance compensation.

"You Are Milking Them Dry"

The NLC lambasted the ride-hailing companies for profiting off drivers' hard labour without providing any tangible welfare support. Sessi emphasized that despite generating billions in revenue through Nigerian drivers, the platforms do not provide training, safety gear, or insurance schemes.

“These drivers are being treated like modern-day slaves in their own country. Some have slumped from stress. Some have died. But there’s no health insurance, no security — nothing. You are milking them dry,” she declared.

She called on Uber and Bolt to publicly account for the value they deliver in exchange for the steep commissions they charge.

Drivers Are Workers

The press briefing also tackled the controversial classification of drivers as “independent contractors.” Sessi strongly rejected the narrative that ride-hailing drivers are not employees, calling it a convenient excuse by companies to evade responsibility.

“How can someone work 12 hours daily, ferrying your customers, and you say they’re not your worker? These people are creating wealth for you — and you are raking in billions,” she said.

The NLC argued that drivers should be legally recognised as workers entitled to fair treatment, safety, and basic labour rights. This view is central to AUATON’s petition submitted to the Lagos State House of Assembly, demanding formal recognition, protection, and regulation of the industry.

Riders Also Need Vetting

Beyond worker welfare, the NLC criticised the lack of rider verification and safety protocols. According to Sessi, the failure to vet passengers puts drivers at risk of robbery, abduction, or even death.

“If you verify drivers, why not riders? Some drivers have disappeared without a trace, yet nothing is done. When a driver is attacked or killed, the company doesn’t even reach out to the family — let alone offer compensation,” she said.

Sessi cited recent cases of violence against drivers and accused ride-hailing firms of showing no empathy, let alone support, in times of tragedy. She also challenged the companies to explain how their much-touted insurance policies actually work, given the consistent absence of payout or protection.

“What is the purpose of your insurance coverage if no family ever benefits when tragedy strikes? Whether life or vehicle insurance — where is it?” she asked.

The Road Ahead

The NLC and AUATON are demanding urgent reforms in the ride-hailing industry to protect Nigerian drivers from exploitation and insecurity. Their demands include:

• A significant reduction in commission rates.
• Health insurance and accident coverage for all registered drivers.
• Formal recognition of drivers as employees with labour rights.
• Verification of riders and stronger safety protocols.
• Transparent explanation and enforcement of insurance policies.

With thousands of Nigerians depending on app-based driving for their livelihood, the NLC warned that continued inaction could trigger protests or even strike actions.

“Enough is enough,” Sessi concluded. “These companies must prioritise the safety, dignity, and rights of the very people keeping their businesses alive.”