The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has denied having any involvement in Uber’s reported decision to discontinue certain airport-related operations, stating that the authority’s dealings with e-hailing companies are focused on regulatory compliance, airport safety and the orderly management of commercial transportation services.
FAAN said it has no interest in frustrating legitimate e-hailing operations at Nigerian airports, stressing that all transport operators using airport facilities are expected to comply with established rules governing access, passenger movement, safety and commercial activities.
The clarification comes amid disagreements between airport authorities and some e-hailing operators over the conditions under which ride-hailing services operate within airport premises.
According to FAAN, disputes involving e-hailing companies should not be interpreted as an attempt by the authority to drive such businesses away from Nigerian airports. The agency maintained that its responsibility is to ensure that activities within airport environments are conducted in a manner that protects passengers, airport users and other stakeholders.
The authority explained that airports require a structured system for managing commercial vehicles because of the volume of passengers and vehicles operating within limited spaces. Consequently, e-hailing operators are required to observe designated procedures for picking up and dropping off passengers.
FAAN also indicated that its engagements with operators in the sector have centred on issues such as access to airport terminals, designated pick-up points, operational procedures and applicable charges.
The agency’s position is that regulatory requirements are not targeted at any particular e-hailing company. Rather, they are intended to establish uniform standards for commercial transportation services operating within airport facilities.
The disagreement has nevertheless highlighted broader challenges facing ride-hailing companies operating in major transport hubs, where commercial interests, passenger convenience, security considerations and regulatory requirements often intersect.
E-hailing services have become an important component of airport transportation, providing passengers with alternatives to conventional taxi services. Their growing presence has also created the need for airport authorities to establish clear systems for managing the increasing number of vehicles and drivers seeking access to terminals.
FAAN’s latest clarification therefore seeks to separate the authority’s regulatory responsibilities from any decision attributed to Uber concerning its operations.
The authority maintained that its objective is to facilitate safe and efficient airport operations while ensuring that businesses providing services within airport premises operate according to the applicable rules.
FAAN’s position also suggests that discussions between airport authorities and e-hailing companies could remain important as the sector continues to expand. Clearer operating arrangements could help reduce disputes while allowing passengers to continue benefiting from convenient transportation options.
For passengers, the development underscores the importance of checking the designated procedures for accessing ride-hailing services at individual airports, as airport authorities may impose specific arrangements for vehicle movement and passenger pick-up.
FAAN’s denial means that Uber’s business decisions should not automatically be attributed to the airport authority, particularly where the company may have independent commercial or operational considerations.
The authority has consequently reaffirmed its role as an airport regulator and operator, emphasising that its priority remains safety, security, efficient airport management and compliance with established regulations.