Uber Launches UberMoto Bike-hailing Service in Ibadan, Nigeria.

Global mobility giant, Uber launches UberMoto bike-hailing service in Ibadan, Nigeria. Adding a low-cost, smart-mobility transport option to its product offering in Nigeria. This launch comes 2 months after UberX was launched in Ibadan.

Uber is a leader in the on-demand ride-hailing market. A market that has become very competitive with the likes of other global mobility brands like Bolt(formerly Taxify) and inDriver.

uberMOTO gives people an affordable and convenient motorcycle ride at the push of a button, on the Uber app. You also get all the standard safety features before, during and after the ride. Such as GPS tracking, Injury Protection, 24/7 support (two-way feedback), driver background checks and screenings, and the ability to share your trip details with family and friends.

UberMoto was first launched in Thailand in 2014, however, UberMoto operations grided to a halt due to unfriendly government policies. UberMoto also has a presence in India. Meanwhile, in 2018, UberMoto launched as UberBoda in Kampala, Uganda. 6 months after launching in Uganda, Uber expanded bike-hailing service UberMoto to Nairobi, Kenya.

UberMoto commences its Ibadan operation with a 100 Naira minimum fare. Riders in Ibadan will receive a 78% lower-cost transport alternative.

Ibadan is the largest Nigerian city by landmass and the 3rd largest city by population in Nigeria, after Lagos and Kano. Over 6 million people live within the city’s metropolitan area.

The startup ecosystem in Ibadan continues to gain momentum as the city as increased its ranking globally to number 353. Gaining 601 spots since 2020. Ibadan startup ecosystem is ranked as second in Nigeria, and third in Western Africa.

Here’s what Tope Akinkumi, Country manager for Uber had to say about UberMOTO launch in Ibadan:

“It makes sense for us to launch a product that will help passengers get to their destination quicker, which is where we can leverage our technology, and we are excited to introduce UberMoto to make this a reality”, Tope Akinwumi, Country Manager for Uber in Nigeria stated.

As we recover, we know we need to continue to offer solutions that respond to consumers who are looking for smart mobility solutions, while providing new revenue streams and earning opportunities for drivers.

For Uber, innovative products and services to help improve the rider and driver experience on the app is a driving force; “We are excited that we are able to expand our options and provide an opportunity with a wider and more cost-effective range of options for both the riders and drivers in the city while navigating traffic seamlessly.

Uber has been making a lot of plays in the African market.

Last month, Uber signed a strategic partnership with Swedish-Kenyan electric vehicle developer, Opibus, to deploy 3,000 electric motorcycles in Africa by 2022. This is part of the bid to meet Uber’s growing demand for emissions-free drivers across the continent.

Uber also went into a partnership with the Lagos State Waterways Authority and Texas Connection Ferrie to launch UberBoat in Lagos in 2019. The mobility giant also expanded its UberX product to various cities in Nigeria including Portharcourt and Abuja.

Uber is currently available in over 54 cities in Sub-Saharan Africa. it is also available in over 10 000 cities in over 65 countries.