LAGOS, Nigeria – App-based transport workers in Nigeria, including drivers for ride-hailing platforms such as Uber, Bolt, Lagride, Indrive, and Rida, have announced a national strike set for Thursday, May 1, 2025, coinciding with International Workers’ Day.
The strike is a direct response to what they describe as “decades of exploitation and corporate arrogance” by the ride-hailing giants.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), led by Public Relations Officer Steven Iwindoye, accused the companies of treating drivers as expendable workers while profiting immensely from their labor.
“For too long, companies like Uber, Bolt, Lagride, Indrive, and Rida have ignored our concerns and disrespected our rights,” the statement read.
“We are calling for a unified global response to the challenges we face as app-based transporters.”
The drivers plan to initiate a 24-hour shutdown of all ride-hailing apps, urging their fellow drivers to disable their apps and refrain from driving.
This action, the union said, is aimed at creating economic disruption in order to apply pressure on the corporations, who, according to the union, have shown little interest in meaningful negotiations.
“Despite our repeated attempts to engage in dialogue, these companies have continuously prioritized their profits over our well-being,” the union continued.
“They’ve ignored our pleas for fair compensation, safe working conditions, and respect for our rights.”
AUATON emphasized that, after several failed dialogues, the union’s members are now prepared to escalate their tactics.
The strike is seen as a precursor to a broader campaign aimed at securing fair working conditions for gig workers in Nigeria and globally.
“These companies only understand one language: the language of economic pressure,” Iwindoye stated.
“By shutting down our services, we’re sending a clear message that we won’t be ignored or disrespected.”
The union intends to follow up the strike with a set of non-negotiable demands and a structured plan for further negotiations.
Iwindoye confirmed that AUATON would work with labor organizations, human rights groups, and the media to amplify their message and build widespread support for the cause.
“We are not just individual drivers, but a united force that won’t be ignored,” the union concluded.
“This is a global call to action, and we need your support to show these companies that our voices matter.”
