A group of Nigerian ride-hailing drivers have launched SimpliRide, a locally developed app aiming to challenge industry heavyweights like Uber, Bolt, LagRide, and InDrive.
Frustrated by high commissions, the drivers introduced a subscription-based model where they pay a flat daily fee of ₦500 ($0.33) instead of losing up to ₦15,000 ($10.03) monthly through commission deductions.
The app, currently available on the Google Play Store, offers separate versions for drivers and riders.
Early data shows the driver app has 500 downloads, while the rider app has around 100, though official operations are yet to commence.
The move reflects longstanding dissatisfaction within the ride-hailing sector. Drivers have repeatedly voiced concerns over rising fuel prices, high operating costs, and what they describe as a lack of support from established platforms — despite monthly meetings held by Uber, Bolt, and InDrive.
This frustration has sparked several driver-led initiatives in the past, including MyKab in 2020, which later merged with the government-supported LagRide.
While SimpliRide has received endorsement from the App-Based Transporters of Nigeria, the union insists it is not directly involved.
“The union is not behind SimpliRide,” said Jolaiya Moses, AUATON’s National Treasurer. “But we support the app because it moves away from commission-based deductions.”
He added that SimpliRide promises added benefits for drivers, including health and life insurance, as well as car loans tied to performance.
However, the initiative has drawn skepticism. AUATON’s General Secretary, Ibrahim Ayoade, questioned the feasibility of drivers developing and running such a platform.
Despite claims of independence, business records show SimpliRide was registered eight months ago.
Discussions on rideshare.chat also suggest AUATON might hold a 40% stake in the app.
