Ride-hailing platform Bolt has unveiled a new safety feature for its driver-partners in Nigeria, converting smartphones into dashboard cameras through a strategic partnership with US-based Driver Technologies. The initiative, which leverages the Driver app, is designed to strengthen security for drivers and passengers by recording both the interior and exterior of vehicles during trips.
The launch responds to long-standing requests from drivers who have consistently highlighted the need for dash cams to provide protection during disputes with passengers, insurance claims, and investigations. Traditional dashboard cameras, however, remain out of reach for many drivers due to high hardware costs.
To address this, Bolt’s partnership with Driver Technologies offers all driver-partners one month of free premium access to the app. After the trial period, drivers can continue using the service at a discounted subscription rate of ₦4,810 (approximately $3.50) per month. All recordings are automatically stored in the cloud and can be accessed or shared as needed, ensuring that drivers have reliable evidence in the event of conflicts or incidents.
“Driver partners regularly tell us that a dash cam can provide them with additional security and peace of mind,” said Osi Oguah, Bolt Nigeria’s General Manager, in a statement to The PUNCH. “But buying a device that meets their requirements can be expensive, with drivers citing cost as the main obstacle. By providing discounted access to premium dashcam functionality, our partnership with Driver Technologies ensures they can access the tools they need to create safer environments for themselves and their passengers.”
The Driver app has been adapted to integrate seamlessly with Bolt’s platform. It can run in the background while drivers are online, offering a picture-in-picture display to confirm that recording is active without interfering with ride-hailing operations. The footage is stored securely in the Driver Cloud and can be shared to support drivers in disputes with customers, insurance claims, or law enforcement inquiries.
Bolt emphasized that the dashcam feature builds on its existing suite of in-app safety tools, which include pick-up verification codes, ride-sharing with Trusted Contacts, and an emergency response system. The rollout also aligns with the company’s broader strategy of investing in safety improvements across African markets, where demand for secure and reliable transport services continues to grow.
For Driver Technologies, the partnership represents an opportunity to expand into emerging markets. The US-based firm will provide technical support, data storage, and management services for Nigerian drivers under the collaboration. The move reflects a growing trend of adapting global safety solutions to local contexts, particularly in Africa where hardware affordability has limited the adoption of advanced tools such as dash cams.
Founded in 2013, Bolt now operates in over 600 cities across 50 countries, with more than 4.5 million drivers worldwide. The company said its latest initiative in Nigeria underscores its commitment to enhancing driver welfare and passenger security while strengthening trust in its platform. As one of Bolt’s fastest-growing markets, Nigeria is expected to play a key role in the company’s continued expansion across the continent.
