FAAN Denies Blanket Ban on Uber and Bolt Services

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has denied reports that it imposed a blanket ban on e-hailing services at its managed airports. The controversy began with a July 30, 2026, internal memo signed by General Manager of Commercial Services U.R. Liman, which ordered the immediate suspension of platforms including Uber and Bolt pending the finalization of license agreements.

FAAN characterized the suspension as an operational alignment rather than a prohibition. The agency stated the measure was necessary to ensure security, accountability, and visibility over drivers and vehicles to prevent passenger solicitation and touting in highly regulated airport environments. Passengers at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja reported increased taxi fares as a result of the restrictions.

To address concerns that it was creating a monopoly, FAAN clarified that its Airport Car Hire Rank Management System (ACHRAMS) is a tool for operational tracking and concession management, not a competitor to e-hailing applications. The authority is currently engaged in constructive discussions with Uber and Bolt to establish a mutually workable framework to resume operations.