Bolt (formerly Taxify) entered the Nigerian market in 2016 and has since become the country's leading ride-hailing platform by city network and driver count. In an exclusive interview with NIPC's media team, Bolt Country Manager Femi Akin-Laguda attributed the company's rapid growth to a people-centric philosophy, product improvement, and a data-led strategy.
"The core of our story is people. The amazing team we have been able to put together in Nigeria has been the core of the success we have had. Our team is one of the best I have worked with — a group of young people who are focused, hungry, passionate and smart," said Akin-Laguda. He noted that a flat organisational structure allows every team member to take ownership and see the results of their work directly.
Akin-Laguda highlighted Bolt's expansion to 29 cities across Nigeria, attributing it to localising the product for the Nigerian demographic and navigating the realities of the operating environment. He also stressed the importance of driver and passenger safety, noting that Bolt has invested in safety features and driver insurance as part of its long-term strategy for the Nigerian market.
On Nigeria's investment environment, he noted that the ride-hailing sector's success demonstrates that technology-driven businesses can scale profitably in Nigeria despite infrastructure challenges, provided companies remain focused and efficient. NIPC's interview formed part of its ongoing series showcasing foreign companies with significant investment footprints in Nigeria.
