Uber starts charging Nigerian customers new 3% booking fee in January

Samson Toromade 10:12 - 30 December 2021

An Uber logo is shown on a rideshare vehicle during a statewide day of action to demand that ride-hailing companies Uber and Lyft follow California law and grant drivers "basic employee rights'', in Los Angeles, California, U.S., August 20, 2020.

The introduction of the new fee is to assist with operational costs.

Ride-hailing service, Uber, will start charging customers in Nigeria a 3% booking fee on all trips, the company announced on Thursday, December 30, 2021.

The company said in an email to customers that the fee will be introduced on Saturday, January 1, 2022.

The introduction of the new fee is to assist with operational costs, according to the email.

"We remain committed to providing access to affordable and reliable mobility options at any time and for everyone," Uber said.

Customers will be able to see the booking fee before the start of the ride, and it will also be reflected in their receipts after the trip.

Rival company, Bolt, similarly introduced a 3% booking fee earlier in December 'to cover operational costs'.

E-hailing drivers in Nigeria have repeatedly mounted pressure on ride-hailing services that fares be increased to reflect the country's economic realities.