Bolt, AUATON Agree on Fare Review, Driver Support Measures

Multiracial male drivers sitting in cabs with opened windows and talking while working and looking at each other. Photo: Tim Samuel/Pexels

E-hailing platform Bolt has committed to addressing key concerns with drivers, specifically focusing on fare structures and the restoration of previously banned accounts. These agreements were reached during talks with the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), which aimed to address the financial and operational hurdles drivers face on the app.

This move follows a four-day strike that saw drivers protest as their earnings dropped due to low fares, high commission rates, rising operational costs, and what they described as the companies’ disregard for their welfare.

Strike Action Prompts Talks

During the dialogue, other grievances were also addressed, notably high rates of driver deactivation, particularly at Bolt, alongside the formal recognition of the union. A central topic was pricing, where drivers provided insights into operating costs, market competition, fare amounts and how pricing impacts both earnings and the long-term viability of using a vehicle.

Following the talks, the resolution stated, “Given the need for input from relevant teams, Bolt requested additional time to coordinate the next stage of discussions. Bolt will communicate a proposed date for a dedicated pricing engagement in the following week,”

The company also addressed feedback regarding paid waiting-time policies and the associated fees for passengers. As it stands, drivers are allowed to cancel a trip after five minutes of waiting without facing a penalty.

Vehicle Maintenance Support

However, Bolt stated it will conduct an internal review of its current paid waiting-time system to see if changes are necessary.

Regarding deactivations, Bolt pledged to create a Driver-Partner Dispute Resolution Clinic to offer a formal process for reviewing disputes involving account blocking, suspension and deactivation.

“The proposed clinic will provide an opportunity to improve mutual understanding of the circumstances that may lead to account restrictions, the applicable review parameters and the channels available to drivers seeking clarification or a review of their cases. The proposed framework will include participation by AUATON representatives and independent drivers, ensuring that the entire driver ecosystem is involved,” the resolution reads.

The company, however, noted that individual cases will still be handled according to platform rules, privacy laws, and the need to safeguard all parties.

Bolt also announced plans for a Vehicle Care and Standards Clinic in response to the growing costs of owning and maintaining a car. Scheduled to operate alongside selected automobile service providers, this initiative aims to give eligible drivers help with minor-to-medium repairs, while upholding the vehicle quality and safety standards necessary for reliable rides.

“The clinic will complement Bolt’s existing vehicle inspection and quality requirements. Its broader objective is to help drivers maintain roadworthy vehicles, promote safer journeys and improve the quality and reliability of the passenger experience,” the resolution read.

Training and Recognition

The firm also expressed interest in creating a Driver Academy and Capacity-Building Programme. Designed with input from AUATON and independent drivers, this program will be a continuous effort to build skills, with the schedule and delivery method to be decided later.

The company noted that representatives from AUATON and independent drivers will be asked to suggest ideas for the program’s structure, key topics, and teaching methods. The final plan will be reviewed internally before implementation. The goal is to strengthen driver knowledge, better utilize platform tools, and support safer, more professional service.

Driver Training and Capacity-Building Program

Bolt plans to establish a Driver Academy and Capacity-Building Programme, inviting input from AUATON and independent drivers on its structure, priority topics, and delivery approach. The final format will undergo internal review before implementation. This initiative aims to enhance driver knowledge, optimize the use of platform resources, and promote safer, more professional, and reliable service delivery.