UBER has said that its data has the capacity to tackle the increasing traffic challenge currently facing the city of Lagos, South West Nigeria.
According to Uber, using its technology, it is possible to not only reduce traffic but also cut down the volume of pollution coming from vehicles that litter the growing mega city adding that through UBER technology, the numbers of cars on the road can be reduced when it merges passengers going to the same destination in its ride.
General Manager for Uber, Sub-Saharan Africa, Mr. Alon Lits told technology writers in Lagos at roundtable discussion that Uber is rapidly changing urban transportation and impacting the way people move from point A to B noting that Uber’s mission is to provide safe, reliable and cost efficient ways of mobility to users, and give car owners the ability to share their journeys if they choose to do so.
He observed that the world is increasingly moving towards finding alternative ways to solve some of its most urgent and pressing socio-economic challenges such as health, education, water, transport and shelter, and that it is clear that technology and innovation are key elements in ensuring these changes are sustainable and scalable.
According to him, mass urbanisation is one of the defining trends of the current generation and leveraging technology at the heart of its operations.
“Technology is a crucial element in creating a society that is more efficient and sustainable. Our focus at Uber is on how we can cut congestion, pollution, and parking, as well as provide access to seamless transportation, by using private cars for public good. How are we able to achieve this? By using new technology and today’s infrastructure”, Lits said.
Sharing some global figures, Alon added, “Today ride-sharing accounts for under 4% of the miles driven globally, by 2030, that number is estimated to go up to 25% – so imagine the possibilities that lie ahead for mobility. Continuing further.“
He said further: “In Lagos for example, technology and collaboration between the private and public sector is vital in building transport systems that work. We are pleased about the plans the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode has to restructure public transportation in the State. With these sorts of plans in place it means that there will be less congestion, increased productivity and more efficient modes of mobility.”
He stated that Uber is always finding innovative ways to use technology that will benefit both riders and drivers and continues to work in collaboration with public transport providers and government to promote safe, accessible transport across Africa.
He disclosed that as part of plans to further support driver-partners in Nigeria, Uber recently launched open its Greenlight Hub in Lagos.
Strategically at the Maryland Mall, the hub will serve as a partner centre that provides potential and existing driver-partners with established channels of communication to raise individual questions and concerns that they may have.
Isaiah Erhiawarien, West Africa
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