Uber Shuts Down Operations in Nigeria, Uganda
Global ride-hailing company Uber has announced the immediate winding down of its operations in Nigeria and Uganda, effective Wednesday, September 2, 2026.
The decision marks a significant development for Nigeria’s e-hailing and digital mobility sector, where Uber has operated as one of the country’s most recognisable ride-hailing platforms.
In a statement, Uber said the decision followed a “thorough review” of its operations and evolving business priorities and investment focus across Africa.
“After a thorough review, we have taken the difficult decision to wind down operations in Nigeria and Uganda, effective September 2, 2026,” the company said.
Uber stressed that the decision is limited to the two countries and does not affect its operations across other African markets.
The company said it remains committed to Sub-Saharan Africa, where it continues to see strong growth prospects and long-term opportunities.
Drivers, Riders to Receive Transition Support
Uber said its immediate priority is to support drivers, riders and employees affected by the decision as the company manages the transition.
The company has reportedly contacted active drivers and indicated that it would extend a token of appreciation to them following the cessation of its services.
For employees, Uber said it would provide support during the transition and communicate directly with affected staff regarding applicable arrangements.
Riders will also continue to have access to Uber’s customer support channels for 21 days following the shutdown to resolve outstanding issues and transition-related enquiries.
Exit Not Linked to Airport Restrictions
Uber also clarified that its decision to leave Nigeria was not connected to the recent directive by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) concerning e-hailing operations at Nigerian airports.
The company said the decision was made independently as part of a review of its broader business priorities and investment strategy across the continent.
The clarification comes amid recent uncertainty in Nigeria’s e-hailing industry following regulatory developments affecting ride-hailing services at airports.
Uber for Business Services Also Affected
Uber’s withdrawal will extend beyond its consumer ride-hailing platform.
The company confirmed that its Uber for Business services in Nigeria will also be discontinued as part of the exit. The company said it is engaging with affected business partners and customers to facilitate the transition.
Uber further stated that the personal data of Nigerian riders will continue to be managed in accordance with applicable data protection laws, privacy requirements and its data protection policies.
Implications for Nigeria’s E-Hailing Market
Uber’s departure is expected to reshape Nigeria’s competitive e-hailing landscape, potentially creating additional opportunities for existing operators and other mobility platforms.
The company’s exit will affect a broad ecosystem of drivers, riders, corporate customers and businesses that rely on its platform for transportation services.
However, Uber maintained that its withdrawal from Nigeria and Uganda should not be interpreted as an exit from Africa.
The company said it will continue to focus its investments on markets where it believes it can create sustainable value for drivers while providing riders with convenient mobility options.
For Nigeria’s mobility sector, attention will now turn to how drivers and riders adjust to the departure of one of the country’s biggest international ride-hailing brands and how competing platforms respond to the changing market dynamics.
The development represents a major shift in Nigeria’s digital transportation industry, with potential implications for competition, driver earnings, consumer choice and the future direction of app-based mobility services in the country.
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