Discover Gokada: How It Works And What To Expect

Gokada has emerged as a significant player in Nigeria's transportation and logistics sector. From its inception as a motorcycle taxi service in 2017 to its current role as a comprehensive logistics and delivery platform, Gokada has continuously evolved to meet the changing needs of the market. Here’s an in-depth look at how Gokada works and what you can expect from this innovative company.

Origins and Evolution

Founded by Nigerian entrepreneur Deji Oduntan, Gokada was initially launched to address the severe traffic congestion in Lagos by offering a faster, more efficient alternative to traditional taxis. The service gained immediate popularity due to its convenience and the safety measures it incorporated, such as providing helmets and ensuring all riders were well-trained.

However, in 2020, a government ban on motorcycle taxis in major parts of Lagos forced Gokada to pivot. The company swiftly adapted by shifting its focus to logistics and delivery services, leveraging its existing fleet and infrastructure to continue serving the needs of the city’s bustling population.

How Gokada Works

1. User Setup

To use Gokada, customers must download the Gokada app, available on Android and iOS platforms. The app is user-friendly and allows you to create an account quickly. Once set up, users can easily request various services offered by Gokada.

2. Requesting Services

Gokada offers a range of services including food delivery, parcel delivery, and ride-hailing. Here’s a step-by-step on how to use the app:

• Request a Ride or Delivery: Open the app, select the service you need, and enter your pickup location.
• Confirmation and Pickup: Once a request is made, a nearby rider (referred to as a G-pilot) is assigned to the task. The rider will confirm the details and arrive at the pickup location within minutes.
• In-Transit: For deliveries, you can track the rider’s progress in real time via the app. For ride-hailing, you’ll receive a call from the rider confirming your request.
• Completion and Payment: Upon reaching the destination, you can pay via cash or through the app’s payment system. After the service is completed, you have the option to rate the rider and provide feedback.

3. Safety and Professionalism

One of the key differentiators for Gokada is its emphasis on safety and professionalism. All riders undergo rigorous training at the Gokada Driver Training School, ensuring they are well-versed in road safety and customer service. Riders are equipped with smartphones for navigation and customer interaction, and both riders and passengers are provided with helmets and disposable hairnets to ensure hygiene and safety.

Technological Integration

Gokada has also launched a Super App that integrates multiple services into a single platform. This app not only facilitates ride-hailing and deliveries but also offers a seamless user experience for managing orders, tracking deliveries in real time, and making payments. The Super App features include route optimization to reduce delivery times and costs, and API integration for businesses to manage large volumes of deliveries efficiently.

Market Impact and Expansion

Gokada has achieved significant milestones, including surpassing $100 million in annual transaction value and completing over one million deliveries for more than 30,000 merchants. The company is expanding its services beyond Lagos to other major Nigerian cities like Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Ibadan. This expansion is supported by recent regulatory approvals, such as the NIPOST license, which allows Gokada to operate courier services across Nigeria.

Benefits of Using Gokada

• Efficiency: Gokada's motorcycle taxis can maneuver through traffic more easily than cars, making them a faster alternative in congested areas.
• Safety: With trained riders and safety gear for both riders and passengers, Gokada ensures a safer ride compared to traditional okadas.
• Affordability: Despite the added benefits, Gokada remains competitively priced, offering a cost-effective solution for quick commutes and deliveries.
• Reliability: The app’s real-time tracking and reliable service ensure that users can depend on Gokada for timely and efficient transportation and logistics solutions.

Conclusion

Gokada has effectively transformed from a ride-hailing service to a comprehensive logistics and delivery platform, addressing critical transportation challenges in Nigeria. By leveraging technology and focusing on safety and efficiency, Gokada continues to play a pivotal role in Nigeria’s logistics ecosystem, with promising growth prospects on the horizon. For more detailed information on Gokada’s services and updates, you can visit their official website or download their app from your preferred app store.