Uber Exits Nigeria

Ride-hailing giant Uber has announced the shutdown of its operations in Nigeria, bringing an end to its 12-year presence in Africa’s largest economy after a review of its business priorities and investment strategy on the continent.

The company confirmed that its Nigerian ride-hailing services would cease operations from Wednesday, September 2, 2026, while expressing appreciation to riders, driver partners and other stakeholders who supported its journey in the country since its launch.

Uber said the decision followed an assessment of its evolving business priorities and where it could create the greatest impact for drivers and riders across Africa, adding that the company would continue to focus investments on markets where it can provide sustainable earning opportunities and reliable mobility solutions.

The exit marks the end of more than a decade of operations in Nigeria, where Uber launched in Lagos in 2014 before expanding its services to other major cities, including Abuja, and becoming one of the leading players in the country’s growing app-based transportation sector.

Over the years, Uber transformed urban mobility in Nigeria by introducing digital ride-hailing services that allowed passengers to request vehicles through mobile applications while creating income opportunities for thousands of driver partners.

The company’s departure comes amid a broader restructuring effort by Uber globally as it reviews operations, reduces costs and redirects resources towards strategic areas of growth. The firm has also announced plans to cut about 3,300 jobs worldwide as part of efforts to simplify its organisational structure.

Uber clarified that its decision to leave Nigeria was not linked to a complete withdrawal from Africa, as the company said it would continue operations in other markets where it believes it can deliver greater value.

The announcement is expected to affect thousands of drivers who relied on the platform for income, with many stakeholders in Nigeria’s transport sector now watching the impact of the exit on competition, pricing and employment opportunities within the ride-hailing industry.

Nigeria’s ride-hailing market has grown significantly in recent years, with local and international platforms competing for passengers and drivers, but operators have also faced challenges including rising vehicle maintenance costs, fuel price pressures and regulatory concerns.

Uber’s exit from Nigeria follows similar withdrawals from some other African markets, as the company continues to reassess countries and regions where it can achieve long-term profitability and sustainable growth.

The company said its customer support channels would remain available for a limited period after the shutdown to assist users with outstanding concerns and transition-related issues.

The departure of Uber represents a major shift in Nigeria’s digital transportation landscape, ending a chapter that helped redefine how millions of Nigerians moved around major cities and opened the door for new competition in the country’s mobility sector.

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