FAAN Clarifies Stance on Uber, Bolt Operations at Nigerian Airports

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) recently made it clear that it has not implemented a comprehensive prohibition on e-hailing platforms like Uber and Bolt operating at airports across the country. The authority emphasized that its ongoing discussions with these service providers are focused on developing a structured framework to ensure the safety, security, and smooth running of airport activities for passengers.

This clarification came via an official statement released on Thursday, bearing the signature of FAAN's management. FAAN underscored that its stance is not intended to limit travellers' access to various transport choices or diminish the significant role played by e-hailing services. Instead, the goal is to integrate all commercial transport providers operating within airport grounds into the existing operational and security protocols of the airport. The authority stated, "FAAN wishes to clarify that its position is not, and has never been, directed at limiting passengers’ access to transportation options or undermining the important role that e-hailing services play in providing convenient mobility to air travellers."

Explaining further, FAAN highlighted that airport environments are subject to strict regulations, necessitating that all commercial transport operators function within a system that grants the authority sufficient oversight of their vehicles and personnel. Such arrangements, the authority added, are crucial to ensure these transport providers are "identifiable, accountable and properly integrated into the airport’s operational and security framework."

This clarification follows a period of public scrutiny and various reports concerning perceived restrictions on e-hailing services at several airports managed by FAAN, notably the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. According to The PUNCH, FAAN introduced the Airport Car Hire Rank Management System (ACHRAMS) as a digital solution designed to modernize ground transportation services at airports, enhance passenger safety, and support cashless transactions. However, the implementation of ACHRAMS has sparked debates and protests regarding vehicle specifications, registration processes, and how e-hailing drivers would be incorporated into the broader airport transport network.

FAAN also took the opportunity to delineate ACHRAMS's true purpose, emphasizing that the platform was not developed to rival established e-hailing companies. The authority explicitly stated, "ACHRAMS is not an e-hailing application and is not intended to compete with or replicate the services provided by Uber, Bolt or any other e-hailing platform." Instead, FAAN explained that ACHRAMS's primary function is to offer operational transparency and tracking capabilities within the airport premises, alongside streamlining the administration of relevant concession fees and other airport charges.

The authority further noted that it had documented various complaints and identified operational difficulties stemming from commercial transportation activities both inside and surrounding airport facilities, such as the unauthorized solicitation of passengers and touting. These issues, it asserted, highlighted the necessity for implementing "a clear and effective framework" to oversee commercial transportation operations at all airports. Consequently, FAAN has been actively engaging with various e-hailing operators to establish "a mutually workable operational framework." This framework aims to acknowledge the utility of their services while simultaneously addressing critical aspects like safety, security, accountability, and overall passenger experience. It stressed, "The current situation should therefore not be misconstrued as FAAN declaring a blanket prohibition on e-hailing services."

FAAN acknowledged the inconveniences passengers might have encountered during this period of resolution and expressed its eagerness to swiftly conclude the ongoing discussions. The authority detailed that the current negotiations centre on ensuring passenger safety and security, maintaining operational transparency, establishing clear accountability, and effectively managing pick-up and drop-off activities within airport grounds. It concluded by stating, "The Authority and the affected operators are currently engaged in constructive discussions towards resolving the outstanding issues."

FAAN conveyed its optimism that a mutually agreeable resolution would soon be achieved, reaffirming that its primary objective remains the protection of passengers and the provision of a "safe, secure, orderly and seamless airport experience." Furthermore, the authority reiterated its dedication to collaborating with Uber, Bolt, and other mobility service providers to guarantee that travellers continue to enjoy secure and convenient transport choices at all Nigerian airports.