he Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has clarified that Uber, Bolt and other e-hailing services have not been banned from Nigerian airports.

In a statement on Thursday, the authority said its engagement with e-hailing operators was aimed at developing a framework that would ensure passenger safety, security and orderly airport operations.

“FAAN wishes to clarify that its position is not, and has never been, directed at limiting passengers’ access to transportation options or undermining the important role that e-hailing services play in providing convenient mobility to air travellers,” the authority said.

FAAN explained that airports are highly regulated environments and commercial transport providers must be identifiable and accountable while operating within airport premises.

The clarification followed concerns over restrictions affecting e-hailing services at airports, including Lagos and Abuja.

The authority also said its Airport Car Hire Rank Management System (ACHRAMS) was designed to improve ground transportation management and was not intended to compete with e-hailing platforms.

“ACHRAMS is not an e-hailing application and is not intended to compete with or replicate the services provided by Uber, Bolt or any other e-hailing platform,” FAAN stated.

According to the authority, it is currently engaging the operators to establish “a mutually workable operational framework” covering safety, security, accountability and airport pick-up arrangements.

“The current situation should therefore not be misconstrued as FAAN declaring a blanket prohibition on e-hailing services,” it said.

FAAN expressed confidence that the discussions would soon produce an agreement that ensures a “safe, secure, orderly and seamless airport experience” for passengers.