HerRyde, a women-only ride-hailing app in Nigeria, has temporarily suspended operations after a successful year-long trial in Abuja, aiming to improve its system and secure additional funding for future expansion. The app empowered women drivers and prioritized passenger safety.
In Nigeria's bustling capital, Abuja, fears of "one chance" robberies have plagued commuters, particularly women. Monsurah Oluwafuyi, along with Muhammad Muazu and Kamaldeen Ibrahim, launched HerRyde in August 2022 to address these safety concerns.
The women-only ride-hailing app aimed to provide a secure mode of transportation by connecting female riders with vetted women drivers. With real-time ride tracking and an SOS button, HerRyde prioritized passenger safety.
Additionally, the platform empowered women by offering job opportunities in the male-dominated ride-hailing industry. Despite facilitating over 2,000 rides and boasting a network of 200 registered women drivers, HerRyde unexpectedly went into hibernation in October 2023. Oluwafuyi cited the need to reevaluate strategies and secure additional funding as reasons for the hiatus.
However, she expressed determination to relaunch the app, highlighting its significance in addressing women's safety concerns. Plans for expansion to Lagos were put on hold as the company focused on refining its operations. Oluwafuyi's commitment to the project remains unwavering, despite stepping down as CEO in March 2024. While HerRyde's co-founders explore opportunities with investors, the future of the app hangs in the balance.
As the Federal Capital Territory Administration implements measures to oversee ride-hailing operations and address safety concerns, the potential return of HerRyde could coincide with a more robust regulatory framework.
