Ride-hailing passengers in Nigeria may soon need to verify their identity with a National Identification Number (NIN).
Bolt says the change could begin rolling out as early as Q4 2025, starting in Lagos.
“We’re actively discussing with the Lagos State Government and the Ministry of Transport,” said Weyinmi Aghadiuno, Bolt’s Senior Public Policy Manager.
“Passengers will start hearing more about it later this year.”
The arises after years of safety concerns from drivers, including deadly attacks.
In 2023, three drivers were killed in Abuja and Port Harcourt.
Drivers’ union AUATON has since pushed for mandatory ID checks for riders.
“This is something we’ve been pushing for, not just on our own, but with the union,” Aghadiuno said during a media briefing in Lagos.
Bolt is now working with regulators and driver unions to create a standard for the entire ride-hailing industry.
The logic is clear: if every app requires NIN, bad actors can’t simply switch platforms.
This would improve safety for both drivers and passengers.
Bolt had teased NIN verification before.
In 2023, the company floated a 2024 rollout but backed down over competition concerns.
“We can’t be the only ones asking for it,” said Osi Oguah, Bolt Nigeria’s Country Manager.
“If we do it alone, people just move to another app.”
This time, Bolt believes industry-wide support and government backing will make the plan stick.
Lagos will serve as the pilot, with other states to follow if the rollout succeeds.
