The ride-hailing company is taking its battle over Value Added Tax (VAT) to the Lagos appeal court after its initial lawsuit was dismissed by a Federal High Court. Bolt argues that the 7.5% VAT on its services is unfair and discriminatory, as traditional taxi operators are exempt from the tax.
The company claims that the tax is hurting its drivers and users, who are already facing economic hardships. Bolt argues that the imposition of the VAT puts it at a competitive disadvantage compared to other players in the industry.
The VAT battle is just one of the challenges Bolt is facing in Nigeria. The company has also been embroiled in disputes with regulatory authorities over licensing and operational requirements. Despite these challenges, Bolt remains committed to providing affordable and convenient transportation options to Nigerians.
As the legal battle continues, Bolt is also exploring ways to expand its services and reach more customers in Nigeria. The company recently launched new features and promotions to attract more users and drivers to its platform.
Overall, Bolt’s perseverance in the face of challenges demonstrates its commitment to serving the Nigerian market and providing innovative solutions to transportation needs. The outcome of the VAT battle will not only impact Bolt but also set a precedent for other tech companies operating in Nigeria.
That’s all from me today. Have a great day!
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Victoria
Bolt Takes VAT Battle with FIRS to Lagos Court of Appeal
In a bid to challenge the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) ruling on the imposition of 5% VAT on food and transport services provided through its platform, ride-hailing company Bolt has taken the matter to the Lagos Court of Appeal. This move comes after a June ruling that upheld FIRS’ authority to collect VAT from drivers and food vendors operating on Bolt’s platform.
At the core of Bolt’s appeal is the argument that the company should not be held responsible for collecting VAT from individual drivers and vendors who essentially run their own businesses. Bolt’s lawyer, Elvis Asia, contends that the court misinterpreted Section 10 of the VAT Act, which, according to Bolt, is intended for foreign suppliers and not local gig workers utilizing its app.
Bolt maintains that the judgment places an unfair financial burden on drivers and vendors who earn below the ₦25 million threshold, emphasizing that the company merely serves as a digital intermediary without direct ownership of vehicles or employment of drivers in Nigeria.
This legal battle is not new for Bolt, as the company previously contested the matter at the Tax Appeal Tribunal in 2022 and the Federal High Court in Lagos in 2025, both resulting in unfavorable outcomes. With the appeal to the Lagos Court of Appeal, Bolt hopes for a different verdict, although the FIRS ruling remains in effect until a hearing date is scheduled.
The dispute stems from a 2019 directive by the Buhari administration supporting FIRS’ decision to impose a 5% VAT on online transactions, affecting various digital platforms, including ride-hailing services, eCommerce companies, and others. FIRS argues that any business operating in Nigeria is subject to VAT obligations, regardless of its operational structure.
Meanwhile, amidst the legal battle in Nigeria, Bolt is also addressing safety concerns in South Africa following recent violent attacks on e-hailing drivers. The company has introduced high-risk alerts to caution drivers about unsafe areas, allowing them to decline trips without penalties and ensuring closer collaboration with law enforcement and unions to enhance safety measures.
For Bolt, navigating compliance with tax regulations and maintaining a safe and fair platform for drivers and customers in Africa pose significant challenges. The outcome of the ongoing VAT dispute and the company’s efforts to enhance safety measures will likely impact its reputation and operations in the region.
In summary, Bolt’s appeal to the Lagos Court of Appeal signifies its commitment to contesting the FIRS ruling on VAT collection while striving to uphold safety standards and regulatory compliance across its operations in Africa. The outcome of this legal battle and Bolt’s initiatives to enhance safety will shape its future trajectory in the region. Title: The Importance of Self-Care in a Fast-Paced World
In today’s fast-paced world, it can be easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With work, family, social obligations, and other responsibilities constantly vying for our attention, it’s no wonder that many of us often neglect our own well-being in the process. However, taking care of ourselves is essential for maintaining physical, mental, and emotional health.
Self-care is a term that has gained popularity in recent years, and for good reason. It refers to the practice of taking deliberate actions to preserve or improve one’s own health and well-being. This can take many forms, from simple acts of self-kindness like taking a bubble bath or going for a walk, to more intentional practices such as therapy, meditation, or exercise.
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In conclusion, self-care is not a luxury, but a necessity in today’s fast-paced world. By taking the time to care for ourselves, we can reduce stress, recharge our batteries, and cultivate a greater sense of self-awareness and self-compassion. So, next time you’re feeling overwhelmed and frazzled, remember to prioritize your own well-being and make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine. Your mind, body, and spirit will thank you for it.
