FAAN says passenger safety, not Uber, drove airport e-hailing policy
The Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN, Olubunmi Kuku, has dismissed claims that the agency was responsible for Uber’s reported decision to exit the Nigerian market, insisting that FAAN’s actions regarding e-hailing operations at airports were guided by concerns about passenger safety, accountability and the need to address touting. Speaking with […] The post…
The Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN, Olubunmi Kuku, has denied allegations that her agency was responsible for Uber's decision to leave the Nigerian market. Kuku emphasized that FAAN's actions related to e-hailing operations were driven by concerns about passenger safety, accountability, and addressing touting.
She clarified that the decision for Uber to exit Nigeria was a matter solely for the company and not influenced by FAAN's regulatory activities. Kuku also addressed controversies surrounding FAAN's temporary restriction on commercial pick-ups by e-hailing drivers at airports, which was implemented following numerous passenger complaints during the December holiday season about unpleasant experiences with e-hailing and car-hire services.
She noted that some of the complaints involved intimidation and situations where passengers were taken to unintended destinations, as well as more serious safety concerns. Kuku also accused some drivers of exploiting airport access by pretending to be e-hailing operators and then joining car-hire operators to charge passengers higher fares.
FAAN introduced a digital platform to improve transparency by allowing passengers to identify the car-hire companies and drivers providing transportation services. The platform's primary purpose is not to operate a transport service but to enhance transparency and visibility for passengers. Kuku stressed that FAAN does not employ drivers or collect transport fares on their behalf, and passengers retain the freedom to choose their preferred mode of transportation.
FAAN's main responsibility is to ensure proper identification and accountability for individuals providing transportation services within the airport environment. Kuku highlighted disagreements over liability as a significant challenge in FAAN's engagement with e-hailing companies, as companies sought designated pick-up locations while FAAN aimed for clearer responsibility and liability clauses.
Written by urgent.news from Ripples Nigeria's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
