Ride-hailing platform Bolt has released new insights indicating a steady rise in airport-bound trips across major Nigerian cities, despite increasing concerns about insecurity and travel-related risks. The data, drawn from millions of rides on the platform, highlights a shift in commuter behavior and suggests that air travel demand remains resilient even as safety challenges persist nationwide.
According to Bolt, bookings to and from airports in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt have grown significantly over the past year. Analysts attribute this upward trend to several factors, including the rising preference for ride-hailing as a safer and more reliable transportation option compared with public alternatives. The convenience of app-based mobility services—such as driver identification, trip tracking, and digital payments—continues to reassure travellers navigating uncertain security conditions.
In recent months, Nigeria has witnessed an increase in road-related security incidents, particularly in areas surrounding key highways and transport hubs. Yet Bolt’s data suggests that rather than avoiding travel altogether, many passengers are choosing more controlled and accountable mobility options to minimize risk. Airport trips, often considered essential journeys, have therefore remained in high demand.
Bolt says it has strengthened its safety protocols to support this shift. The platform highlights its in-app emergency assistance, driver background checks, trip sharing features, and 24/7 support as contributing factors to growing user confidence. These tools, the company notes, have helped travellers feel safer when embarking on early-morning or late-night airport rides—periods typically associated with increased vulnerability.
Industry observers say the data reflects a broader trend: despite socio-economic challenges, Nigerians continue to travel for business, family obligations, and international opportunities. With airline passenger numbers steadily climbing, airports remain busy, and ride-hailing services have become an essential part of the travel chain.
Bolt’s report not only underscores the platform’s role in mobility but also highlights the evolving relationship between safety concerns and consumer choices. As insecurity continues to shape how Nigerians move around, demand for reliable, tech-enabled transport solutions is likely to grow even further.
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