02/09/2026
Uber shuts down operations in Nigeria after 12 years of service
Ride-hailing giant Uber has announced plans to wind down its operations in Nigeria and Uganda, effective Wednesday, September 2, 2026, bringing an end to more than a decade of operations in Nigeria.
In a notice to customers and a statement to the media, Uber said the decision followed a review of its business priorities and investment strategy 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 applies only to Nigeria and Uganda and does not affect its operations in other African markets. The company said it remains committed to Sub-Saharan Africa and will continue investing in markets where it believes it can create sustainable opportunities for drivers and provide reliable mobility services for riders.
Uber launched in Lagos in 2014, making Nigeria one of its earliest African markets. Over the years, the company expanded to several Nigerian cities, including Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt, Ibadan, Enugu and others, becoming one of the country’s leading ride-hailing platforms.
The shutdown therefore marks the end of a 12-year chapter for Uber in Nigeria.
The company also clarified that its decision is unrelated to the recent directive by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) concerning e-hailing operations at airports.
Uber said its immediate priority is to support drivers, riders and employees affected by the transition. Rider support through its Help Centre is expected to remain available for about 21 days after the shutdown, until approximately September 23, 2026, to address outstanding account-related issues.
Uber for Business services in the affected markets will also come to an end, while customer data will be handled in accordance with applicable privacy laws and the company’s policies.
The exits come as Uber embarks on a major global restructuring. On September 2, CEO Dara Khosrowshahi announced that the company would reduce its workforce by about 10%, affecting approximately 3,300 employees. Uber said the restructuring involves removing management layers, simplifying team structures, refining its global location strategy and concentrating investment on major growth opportunities, including autonomous vehicles.
The move also comes amid increasing challenges in Nigeria’s ride-hailing industry, including rising fuel costs, inflation, currency volatility, operating expenses and regulatory pressures.
Despite the withdrawal from Nigeria and Uganda, Uber says it remains confident in the long-term growth potential of Sub-Saharan Africa and will continue operating in other markets across the continent.