The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and operators of e-hailing platforms, including Uber and Bolt, are working towards resolving operational challenges surrounding passenger pick-up services at Nigerian airports.
FAAN said on Thursday that the ongoing engagement with the operators was not intended to shut out e-hailing services from airports but to establish a framework that would improve safety, accountability and passenger experience.
The Authority said the need for a clearer operational arrangement became necessary following complaints and challenges associated with commercial transportation activities within and around airport premises, including passenger solicitation and touting.
According to FAAN, “the current situation should therefore not be misconstrued as FAAN declaring a blanket prohibition on e-hailing services.”
It explained that commercial transportation services operating within airports must be properly integrated into the airport’s security and operational systems, with adequate visibility over vehicles and drivers.
FAAN said such measures were necessary to ensure that transport operators were “identifiable, accountable and properly integrated into the airport’s operational and security framework.”
The Authority also clarified the role of its ACHRAMS platform, amid reports suggesting that the system was designed to compete with established e-hailing companies.
“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,” FAAN stated.
It said ACHRAMS was primarily developed to provide operational visibility and tracking within the airport environment, as well as facilitate the management of applicable concession and related airport charges.
FAAN acknowledged the importance of e-hailing services to air travellers, particularly the convenience and additional transportation options they provide.
“The Authority equally appreciates the concerns being expressed by passengers who may experience inconvenience while these operational issues are being resolved,” it said.
The Authority disclosed that discussions with affected operators were ongoing, with particular attention being given to passenger safety and security, operational visibility, accountability and the management of pick-up activities.
FAAN expressed optimism that the discussions would be concluded soon, stressing that its overriding objective was to protect passengers while maintaining an orderly airport environment.
“The Authority reiterates that its actions are guided by one overriding consideration: to protect passengers while providing them with a safe, secure, orderly and seamless airport experience,” FAAN said.
The Authority further assured travellers that it remained committed to working collaboratively with Uber, Bolt and other mobility providers to ensure the continued availability of safe and convenient transportation options at Nigerian airports.
