A recent report by Bolt, in partnership with Ipsos, reveals that women constitute 70% of the e-hailing passenger base in Nigeria, showing the existing gender disparity in ride-hailing service usage across the country.
The “Ride Hailing Safety Perception Report,” published in November 2025, indicates that only 30% of the e-hailing users in Nigeria are men. Among female users, the largest age group (39%) falls between 25 and 34 years, followed by 36% aged 35 to 44. Younger women aged 18 to 24 represent 18%, while those over 45 make up just 6%.
In terms of usage frequency, 47% of all users reported taking rides several times per week, 12% said they use e-hailing daily, and 26% use it a few times a month. Only 14% reported rarely using the services.
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.
The study also found that 81% of Nigerian passengers perceive ride-hailing as safer than alternative transport options. A majority of 96% choose ride-hailing when public transport feels unsafe, especially during late-night travel, in unfamiliar locations, or after drinking alcohol. 94% have booked rides for family or friends to ensure safe arrivals. About two-thirds (66%) believe ride-hailing reduces drunk driving by providing a dependable alternative.
Key safety features identified by users as confidence boosters include real-time GPS tracking (62%), driver verification (58%), and trip sharing (49%). These elements contribute to the visibility, accountability, and traceability within the ride-hailing ecosystem. The survey encompassed major Nigerian cities such as Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Ibadan, evaluating various safety dimensions from driver trust to vehicle conditions and situational risks.
Bolt Nigeria General Manager Osi Oguah emphasized;
The importance of the findings Safety is at the core of everything we do at Bolt. 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
