Ride-hailing firms offer korope, keke options for cheaper fares

Ride-hailing companies in Nigeria are introducing low-cost transport options, including minibuses and tricycles, in a bid to meet rising demand for affordable urban mobility.

Firms like Uber and Bolt are now offering alternatives such as “korope” minibuses and “keke” tricycles, targeting short-distance trips in congested cities like Lagos, where transport costs have surged.

The move reflects how operators are adapting to Nigeria’s economic realities, as commuters grapple with a rising cost of living and shrinking disposable income.

The introduction of these options has already started gaining attention online. Actress Omowunmi Dada recently shared her experience using Uber’s korope service, describing it as a practical option for short trips despite its basic features.

“I checked on the Uber app, and I saw Uber Mini… and then guys, I’m inside my Uber Korope,” she said in a video posted on social media, noting the absence of features like air conditioning.

The shift is not limited to private operators. LagRide, a Lagos state-backed platform, had already expanded into smaller vehicle offerings under its Omnia initiative, while Bolt earlier introduced electric tricycles in selected parts of the city to reduce fares and improve driver earnings.

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Together, these moves signal a broader evolution in Nigeria’s ride-hailing market, from premium convenience to cost-sensitive, last-mile solutions designed for everyday commuters.

As competition intensifies, affordability is fast becoming the key battleground, with operators betting that smaller, cheaper vehicles will unlock a wider segment of riders across urban centres.