FAAN Denies Role in Uber's Exit from Nigeria

Olubunmi Kuku, the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), clarified that the agency did not influence Uber's decision to exit the Nigerian market. Kuku emphasized that FAAN's actions were motivated by concerns over passenger safety and the need to regulate e-hailing services at airports.

Recently, FAAN temporarily halted e-hailing drivers from conducting commercial pick-ups at its airports while finalizing licensing agreements. Kuku noted that the agency received numerous complaints from passengers, particularly during the December holiday period, regarding unpleasant experiences with e-hailing and car-hire services.

Complaints included intimidation and being dropped off at unintended locations. Kuku alleged that some drivers exploited the airport system by posing as legitimate e-hailing operators.

To address these issues, FAAN introduced regulatory oversight for car-hire operators and developed an app to enhance transparency and provide passengers with information about their transportation options.