Uber, the global ride-hailing giant is set to introduce its services outside its familiar markets of Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial city and Abuja, Nigeria’s seat of power.
All things being equal, Uber will launch its services in Benin City, Edo state on Wednesday, July 24, 2019.
The launch is expected to take place at the Edo Innovation Centre according to the Senior Special Assistant to the State Governor on Skills Development and Jobs Creation and Head, EdoJobs, Mrs Ukinebo Dare.
Dare said: “We are working with Uber to finalise modalities for the takeoff of the service in Benin City. We are excited because this helps in getting people meaningfully engaged. As you know, Uber gives car owners the opportunity to make some money with their cars. But we are keen on the job-creating feature of the service as well.”
Taxify, Uber’s biggest competitor in the ride-hailing business in Nigeria launched its ride-hailing services in Benin City in December last year.
The Country Manager of Bolt (Taxify), Uche Okafor said about the Benin launch: “After our successful launches in Nigeria’s main centres, expanding to Benin is a natural next step for Bolt (Taxify). Bolt (Taxify) is an affordable alternative for anyone seeking convenient, on-demand transport from point A to B. The service also creates work opportunities for people who hold a professional driving permit, and who haven’t been able to find work.”
