Chowdeck has launched a personal accident insurance scheme covering more than 20,000 riders on its platform through a partnership with Nigerian insurer MyCoverGenius.
The program, which began in November 2024, automatically enrolls all active riders. Coverage includes accidental medical expenses, temporary disability support and compensation for time off work due to injuries sustained while delivering.
Under the scheme, Chowdeck will pay hospital bills linked to accident treatment and provide income support for riders unable to work temporarily.
The move comes as Chowdeck's order volumes continue to rise. In November 2025, the company crossed 1 million cumulative orders, with daily volumes averaging more than 40,000. Increased activity on the road has raised exposure to traffic accidents and work-related risks.
Keep up with the latest headlines on WhatsApp | LinkedIn
Delivery riders in Nigeria often face fluctuating incomes influenced by fuel prices and commission structures. A single accident can result in lost earnings and medical costs that exceed weekly income.
Chowdeck said the initiative reflects efforts to strengthen rider welfare as the platform scales operations.
Other mobility platforms have adopted similar measures. Bolt introduced insurance coverage for riders in 2024, while inDrive extended insurance packages to about 600 drivers in 2025.
MyCoverGenius said the partnership demonstrates how digital platforms can integrate insurance services directly into gig work ecosystems.
Key Takeaways
Gig economy platforms across Africa are facing growing pressure to formalize worker protections. Delivery and ride-hailing services rely on independent contractors who typically lack employer-provided health or accident coverage. As platforms scale, the absence of structured benefits can increase operational risk and reputational exposure. Insurance partnerships offer a way to manage that risk without shifting riders into full employment models. Embedded insurance, integrated directly into digital platforms, is becoming more common. Fintech and insurtech firms are using APIs to offer coverage automatically to users or workers without separate enrollment processes. For gig workers, structured accident coverage can stabilize income and reduce vulnerability to shocks. For platforms, such programs may improve retention and trust while signaling compliance with evolving regulatory expectations around worker welfare.
