The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has clarified that it has not placed a blanket ban on e-hailing platforms such as Uber and Bolt at airports across the country.
FAAN made the clarification in a statement issued on Thursday in Lagos, while noting that discussions with e-hailing operators were ongoing to establish a suitable framework for their activities within airport premises.
The authority explained that its position was not aimed at restricting passengers’ transportation choices or reducing the convenience offered by e-hailing platforms.
Instead, FAAN said its major concern was ensuring that commercial transport activities at airports complied with established safety, security and operational standards.
According to the authority, airports operate within highly regulated environments, making it necessary for commercial transport providers to operate under a framework that allows the airport management to identify and monitor their vehicles, drivers and activities.
FAAN added that such a system would also improve coordination whenever security or passenger-related incidents occur, particularly given the large number of people moving through airports.
The authority stressed that transport providers operating within airport premises must be identifiable, accountable and properly integrated into the airports’ operational and security structures.
FAAN also clarified that its Airport Car Hire Rank Management System (ACHRAMS) is not an e-hailing platform.
The authority explained that ACHRAMS was primarily introduced to provide operational visibility and tracking within airports, while also supporting the management of applicable concession fees and other airport-related charges.
FAAN said it had received complaints and identified operational difficulties linked to commercial transportation services within and around airport premises, including passenger solicitation and touting.
It said these concerns had made it necessary to develop a clear framework for managing commercial transport services at airports.
“The authority have been engaging relevant e-hailing operators to develop a mutually acceptable operational framework that will recognise the value of service.
“FAAN is addressing the safety, security, accountability and passenger-experience requirements of the airport environment.
“The current situation should therefore not be misconstrued as FAAN declaring a blanket prohibition on e-hailing services,” it said.
FAAN said the ongoing discussions were intended to ensure that e-hailing companies could continue serving passengers while operating within a framework that satisfies airport requirements.
The authority acknowledged the convenience and wider transportation options provided by platforms such as Uber and Bolt but also recognised that some passengers may experience temporary inconvenience while the issues are being resolved.
FAAN said it was working to conclude the discussions with the operators as quickly as possible.
Among the issues under consideration are passenger safety and security, operational visibility, accountability and the management of pick-up points within airport premises.
The authority expressed confidence that a mutually acceptable arrangement would soon be reached.
FAAN reiterated that its actions were driven by the need to protect passengers and ensure a safe, secure, orderly and seamless experience at Nigerian airports.
It also reaffirmed its commitment to working with Uber, Bolt and other mobility providers to ensure passengers retain access to safe and convenient transportation options at airports nationwide.