Uber has announced that it’s winding down its operations in Nigeria and Uganda, effective Wednesday, September 2, 2026.
The global ride-hailing company said the decision followed a “thorough review” of its business, but did not provide further details on the specific factors behind the withdrawal.
Uber said the decision was limited to Nigeria and Uganda and would not affect its operations elsewhere in Africa.
The company said its immediate priority was to support drivers, riders and local team members during the transition.
Uber entered Nigeria in 2014, initially launching its ride-hailing service in Lagos before expanding to other major cities. Its arrival helped establish app-based ride-hailing as a major part of urban transportation in the country.
The company’s departure comes as Nigeria’s e-hailing market has become increasingly competitive, with Bolt and inDrive among the major platforms competing for riders and drivers.
Uber’s exit also comes shortly after regulatory uncertainty around e-hailing services at Nigerian airports. However, the company has said its decision to leave Nigeria was not related to a recent directive by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria concerning e-hailing operations at airports.
Uber said it remains committed to Sub-Saharan Africa and continues to see growth opportunities across the region. It said its investment focus would increasingly be directed towards markets where it can create value for drivers and provide mobility services at scale.
The company is communicating directly with affected drivers, riders and employees regarding the shutdown. It has not disclosed the number of people affected by its departure from the two countries.
For Nigerian drivers, the withdrawal will remove one of the country’s most established ride-hailing platforms after more than a decade of operations. Riders will also have fewer international platforms to choose from, although several competitors remain active in the market.
Uber’s exit marks the end of a 12-year presence in Nigeria and represents a significant shift in the country’s digital mobility industry.
The company said its rider support channels would remain available for a limited period after operations end to assist customers with outstanding issues.
The withdrawal from Nigeria and Uganda does not signal a broader African exit, with Uber maintaining that it remains committed to its operations and investments across other Sub-Saharan African markets.
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Emmanuel Abara Benson is a business journalist and editor covering artificial intelligence, global markets, and emerging technology.
He has previously worked with Business Insider Africa and Nairametrics, reporting on finance, startups, and innovation.
His work focuses on AI, digital economy, and global tech trends.
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