Women Lead Nigeria’s E-Hailing Scene, Making Up 70% of Users
According to the Ride-Hailing Safety Perception Report by Bolt in partnership with global research firm Ipsos, 70% of ride-hailing passengers in Nigeria are women, a striking statistic that reveals more than just travel habits. It paints a powerful picture of how digital mobility platforms are transforming safety, independence, and convenience for Nigerian women, while redefining the country’s urban transport culture.
The report reveals that only 30% of passengers are male, meaning women are driving the mainstream adoption of e-hailing services in Nigeria. This dominance extends across age groups, with the largest user segment being women aged 25–34 (39%), followed by those aged 35–44 (36%). Younger women aged 18–24 make up 18%, while those aged 45+ account for just 6%. This data underscores a growing demographic of young, urban, and digitally savvy women who are not just using technology for convenience, but for safety and mobility empowerment.
In an environment where public transport can often feel unsafe, unpredictable, or inaccessible, ride-hailing apps like Bolt have become a trusted alternative for daily commutes, late-night returns, and cross-city movement. “Ride-hailing adoption in Nigeria is driven by a young, urban, and digitally active population, with women representing the majority of users,” the report states.
It’s not just about comfort; it’s about control and confidence. The study highlights that 81% of Nigerian passengers consider ride-hailing safer than other transport options, a perception that strongly influences travel choices. An overwhelming 96% of respondents said they use ride-hailing when public transport feels unsafe, particularly during late nights, in unfamiliar areas, or after social events. For 94%, it’s also a way to protect loved ones, as they have booked rides for friends or family members to ensure they get home safely. Two-thirds of those surveyed believe ride-hailing apps actively help reduce drunk driving by offering a reliable and accessible alternative. These statistics point to a clear conclusion: ride-hailing isn’t just changing how Nigerians move; it’s changing how they feel about moving.
Technology lies at the heart of this growing trust. The Bolt–Ipsos report identifies key safety features that make passengers feel secure, including real-time GPS tracking, driver verification, and trip sharing. Visibility, accountability, and traceability are the pillars driving confidence in app-based transport. In a country where safety concerns often dominate urban mobility discussions, these features are not just welcome, they’re essential. “Safety is at the core of everything we do at Bolt,” said Osi Oguah, General Manager of Bolt Nigeria. “This research gives us valuable insight into how Nigerians experience and perceive safety when using ride-hailing. We’ll continue to invest in technology, partnerships, and awareness to ensure every ride on Bolt is not only affordable and reliable but also safe.”
The findings have earned praise from key stakeholders. Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, described Bolt’s initiative as “commendable and forward-thinking,” adding that it reflects a genuine commitment to listening to users and improving the ride-hailing experience. Similarly, Stephanie Kanyiri from Ipsos noted that the data shows an encouraging trend: Nigerians increasingly view ride-hailing as a trusted and secure mobility option, especially women who prioritize safety and visibility.
The dominance of women in Nigeria’s ride-hailing ecosystem is more than a demographic detail; it’s a reflection of shifting social realities. In a society where mobility and safety have long been intertwined with gender-based challenges, app-based transport has quietly become a form of empowerment. By prioritizing accountability and accessibility, platforms like Bolt are not only reshaping mobility habits but also supporting the broader movement toward safer, tech-driven cities.
The Ride-Hailing Safety Perception Report serves as more than research; it’s a roadmap for the future of safe, inclusive, and digital mobility in Nigeria. With women leading the charge and safety driving adoption, the next chapter of e-hailing in Nigeria will likely focus on enhancing trust, expanding access, and sustaining the digital infrastructure that has made ride-hailing indispensable for millions. And if the numbers tell us anything, it’s that Nigerian women aren’t just passengers in this journey; they’re in the driver’s seat of the country’s mobility revolution.