Global ride-hailing company Uber has shut down its operations in Nigeria after 12 years, bringing an end to its services in one of Africa’s largest and most competitive digital transportation markets.
Uber confirmed that its Nigerian operations ceased on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, following what it described as a thorough review of its business priorities and investment focus across Africa.
The company said the decision also affects its operations in Uganda but stressed that its withdrawal from the two countries does not signal a wider exit from the African market.
“After a thorough review, we have taken the difficult decision to wind down operations in Nigeria and Uganda, effective September 2, 2026”, Uber said.
Uber entered the Nigerian market in 2014, launching its services in Lagos before expanding to other major cities. Over the years, the platform became one of the leading players in Nigeria’s rapidly growing e-hailing industry, connecting millions of commuters with independent drivers.
The company said its immediate focus would be supporting affected drivers, riders and employees through the transition.
According to Uber’s Head of Communications for East and West Africa, Lorraine Onduru, the company has begun communicating directly with affected stakeholders regarding transition arrangements.
Active drivers are expected to receive a token of appreciation, while rider support will remain available for a limited period to address outstanding account and transition-related issues. Uber for Business services in Nigeria will also be discontinued.
However, Uber has not publicly disclosed the number of drivers, riders or employees directly affected by the Nigerian shutdown.
Uber did not provide specific details about the commercial or financial factors behind its decision.
The company, however, said the move followed a review of its evolving business priorities and investment focus across Africa.
It also clarified that the decision was unrelated to the recent controversy involving e-hailing operators and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) over operations at Nigerian airports.
Nigeria’s ride-hailing industry has become increasingly competitive, with operators facing challenges including rising fuel costs, inflation, currency volatility and increasing operational expenses.
Uber’s departure marks a significant development for Nigeria’s digital transportation and mobility sector.
Since its arrival in Lagos in 2014, Uber played a major role in popularising app-based transportation services and helping reshape urban mobility in the country.
Its exit is expected to create new opportunities for competing ride-hailing platforms while raising questions about the immediate transition for drivers and regular users who depended on the platform.
The shutdown also represents another significant development in Nigeria’s technology and digital economy, particularly at a time when businesses continue to navigate rising operating costs and a challenging macroeconomic environment.
Uber said it remains committed to Sub-Saharan Africa and continues to see growth opportunities across the region despite its withdrawal from Nigeria and Uganda.
