UberX Hourly arrives Nigeria
ZBy Zainab Iwayemi
Uber, the US-based ride-hailing platform, has launched its UberX Hourly in Nigeria to allow riders stop at multiple locations on a single ride by merely choosing an option of requesting a driver by the hour as riders complete essential errands or deliveries.
Speaking on the new function open to Nigerians, Tope Akinwumi, Uber’s country manager for Nigeria explained that the innovation would ease the riders of stress in navigating multiple locations.
“We are excited to bring innovations designed to help people get anywhere and get anything as cities start to move again, while we continue to ensure that riders and businesses no longer have to navigate to multiple locations. Uber is continuously looking for ways to improve the experience for their communities and this is just the start.’’
He added that the ride-hailing platform will continue to utilize technology in designing services that are in line with the changing need of customers. “Uber is an operating system that connects Nigeria to the places, people, and moments that matter to them. Moving forward, Uber will continue to leverage its technology to quickly adapt and meet the changing needs of businesses and customers, wherever they are.
“Uber’s responsibility doesn’t end at merely providing this service and have kept safety in mind by providing relevant health information with drivers to ensure they are well-trained in COVID-19 related safety protocols and have been provided with hand sanitizers for use during trips,” he noted.
The development, designed to give riders utmost convenience as they go from places to places without changing driver will serve as an alternative to on-demand, point-to-point trips that allows riders to book a driver-partner and car by the hour to help get all their essential needs done in one go.
In addition, it will also open avenue for Uber drivers to improve their income and consequently lead to improved economic opportunities, while representing innovation in the transport sector.
To use this option, riders would need to choose the hourly driver option and send the driver an in-app message to let them know how long they might be needed for the trip.