Bolt Fights Back as Offline Rides Plummet

Ride-hailing company Bolt has seen a 42% drop in offline trips across Nigeria since it began enforcing new real-time monitoring and driver penalties late last year. The sweeping change follows a $107 million global investment in rider safety, and forms part of a wider campaign to eliminate unmonitored journeys that often lead to fare disputes, security risks, or even assaults.

Since November 2024, Bolt’s algorithm has begun actively flagging drivers who attempt to move trips or payments outside the app. These violations result in earnings deductions or suspensions, a move the company hopes will discourage off-platform rides which avoid commission but increase risk for passengers.

According to Bolt Nigeria’s General Manager, Osi Oguah, the new enforcement is about more than profit protection. “If you’re not transacting within the app, you’re exposing yourself to danger,” he warned. “We’ve seen what happens when rides go [offline]. This isn’t just about business, it’s about keeping people safe.”

Tech-Driven Safety Tools Take Hold

Bolt has added several features to reinforce user trust. Its Trusted Contacts tool—which alerts loved ones when something seems off during a trip—has seen 290% more usage since enforcement began. Likewise, over 5,000 users now rely on the Pickup PIN, a four-digit code exchanged between rider and driver to prevent impersonation.

These are layered onto existing tools like real-time trip tracking, audio trip recording, and the in-app emergency button, which connects directly to police or security teams. These tools aim to restore control and confidence to passengers who have previously been vulnerable during offline or untraceable rides.

Despite the improved safety stats, it’s not all smooth sailing. Bolt hasn’t yet shared how these updates have impacted total ride volume or driver earnings, but many drivers are increasingly frustrated.

Driver Pushback and Economic Pressures

For many Bolt drivers in Nigeria, offline trips represented a chance to bypass Bolt’s commissions and keep more of their fares. With fuel prices climbing and vehicle maintenance costs rising, drivers argue that sticking to the app leaves them with slimmer margins.

Several driver-led protests—most notably a sit-at-home on Labour Day (May 1st)—have called for more favourable commission structures. Some drivers have taken legal action, while others have embraced multi-homing, signing up to multiple ride-hailing apps to avoid reliance on a single platform.