A Nigerian ride-hailing driver has lamented the rising cost of operating his vehicle after reportedly spending ₦80,000 on fuel but earning only ₦60,000 from trips on Bolt and inDrive.
The driver, whose identity was not disclosed, shared his frustration in a video that has circulated on social media, explaining that his earnings were insufficient to cover his fuel expenses, leaving him with no money to take home to his family.
According to the driver, he worked throughout the night using both ride-hailing platforms but struggled to make enough money despite the long hours behind the wheel.
He explained that he has a wife and four children to cater for, including paying school fees, providing food and maintaining his vehicle. He appealed for better fares, saying the current earnings were making it increasingly difficult for drivers to meet their financial responsibilities.
The complaint comes amid growing concerns among ride-hailing drivers over rising fuel prices, vehicle maintenance costs and fares they say have not kept pace with operating expenses. Similar concerns have been raised by drivers in Lagos, some of whom recently protested and called on Bolt and inDrive to review their pricing structures.
The situation has renewed calls for ride-hailing companies to consider drivers’ operating costs when determining fares. However, actual earnings vary depending on factors such as trip volume, distance, demand, fuel consumption and vehicle maintenance expenses.
