Along Transport, a cab company in Abuja has unveiled a contemporary public transportation app aimed at enhancing cab services and offering budget-friendly transportation options in the capital city.
The app is also undergoing a trial in two additional states across Nigeria.
During a press conference on Tuesday, Endurance Timothy Omonibo (MNIPR, MNICM), the Managing Director and Co-founder of Along Transport, highlighted the need for safe, convenient, and affordable rides for both drivers and passengers, especially for low-income individuals encountering economic hardships.
Omonibo co-established Along Transport in 2023 alongside his partner, Dolapo Obatoyinbo, with the service officially kicking off in September 2024.
The initiative seeks to revolutionize the transportation sector, drawing inspiration from the colloquial term “along,” frequently used by urban commuters, which has been transformed into the innovative mobile platform known as the “Along App.”
“We are Along, a proudly Nigerian e-hailing transport platform committed to delivering affordable, secure, and convenient rides for both drivers and passengers,” stated Omonibo.
Discussing the main features of the Along App, Omonibo noted its focus on safety, comfort, and convenience, which includes identity verification for riders and drivers alike. “This guarantees that all users are genuine and accountable,” he explained.
He stressed that Along Transport aspires to offer budget-friendly rides while potentially enabling drivers to earn twice their average daily income. At present, the app is in beta testing and operates in Abuja, Rivers, and Bayelsa.
The Along App provides two transportation modes: Along (Transit) and Drop (Trip). The Along (Transit) mode features shared rides with predetermined stops, available in both Economy and Business categories, allowing up to four passengers travelling in the same direction to share the ride.
“This makes it a more economical option than travelling alone,” Omonibo clarified. The Drop (Trip) mode offers private, individual rides to specified destinations, also accessible in Economy and Business tiers, allowing drivers to undertake multiple shared trips each day for greater earnings.
On the subject of user verification and safety protocols, Omonibo remarked, “We prioritize safety. All riders and drivers are required to register using their National Identification Number (NIN) or Bank Verification Number (BVN), which helps mitigate incidents of crime such as kidnapping, theft, and harassment. We collaborate with a credible identity verification provider and are fully accredited by the Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC) to ensure adherence to privacy standards. Our SOS feature enables users to swiftly alert their emergency contacts or authorities like the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) or Nigeria Police in emergencies.”
Omonibo further elaborated on the economic impact of the Along App, underscoring its potential to create job opportunities and various payment options. “Along Transport will generate new employment opportunities within the transport sector, allowing drivers to join the platform as either full-time or part-time employees, benefitting from enhanced earnings and improved safety features.”
Riders can choose from three convenient payment methods: cash/transfer, wallet, and card payments. Upon signing up, each user receives a wallet to set transportation budgets and manage funds. Drivers also have access to their wallets for seamless transactions, with a 10% commission deducted from cash-based rides.
Reflecting on the company’s accomplishments since rolling out the beta version in September 2024, Omonibo shared some notable milestones:
– 4,500 active riders and 375 drivers across Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Bayelsa.
– Over 305 rides successfully completed.
– More than 500 users registered in areas beyond the current service regions.
– A competitive 10% commission rate for drivers.
When responding to inquiries from journalists, Omonibo acknowledged the difficulties the company faces regarding funding and investment opportunities to back its initiatives. He mentioned, “At present, our most significant challenge is funding. To establish Along as one of the premier e-hailing platforms in Nigeria and across Africa, we require substantial investment. We are open to various investment possibilities.”
“We are in search of equity and other investment avenues to support the following initiatives: 1. Technology Infrastructure: Enhancing the app’s performance, broadening features, and improving scalability. 2. Customer Acquisition & Retention: Executing marketing strategies, promotions, and loyalty programs. 3. Fleet Expansion: Increasing the number of drivers and extending services into new cities. 4. Operational Scaling: Recruiting additional staff for customer support, driver relations, and technology development. 5. Market Expansion: Moving into new areas and establishing strategic partnerships.
Regarding growth and improvement, the company expressed its commitment to enhancing the app to address the changing needs of riders.
“The company is investor-ready and poised to scale up and expand its operations. “Let’s work together to redefine affordable and safer transportation.” He concluded.
“Download the Along App today at: alongxtransport.com/download.
For inquiries, contact us: Head Office: 2nd Floor, Habiba Plaza, Osun Crescent, Maitama, Abuja.
Email: hello@alongtransport.com
Social Media: Facebook, Instagram, and X: @alongxtransport
Website: www.alongxtransport.com. “ He concluded.
