Uber to Exit Nigeria After 12 Years of Operations: Uber, the global ride-hailing giant, has announced it will discontinue its operations in Nigeria after nearly 12 years in the country. The company will officially cease Nigerian operations starting Wednesday, citing a strategic review of its business priorities and investment focus across Africa.
Why is Uber Leaving Nigeria?
Uber described the decision as difficult, emphasizing that it is specific to both Nigeria and Uganda. While the company did not provide detailed reasons for exiting the Nigerian market, it stated that the move is unrelated to ongoing discussions about e-hailing regulations at Nigerian airports. Uber also clarified that its operations in other African markets will not be affected by this decision.
Global Restructuring in Progress
Uber’s departure from Nigeria coincides with a broader global restructuring effort, which includes plans to reduce its workforce by approximately 10 percent. CEO Dara Khosrowshahi explained that these job cuts are part of a larger initiative to streamline the company, flatten management layers, and speed up decision-making. However, Uber maintains that its exit from Nigeria is not directly linked to the global restructuring, but rather stems from a reassessment of its business strategy in Africa.
Impact on Users and Drivers
When Uber halts Nigerian operations, riders will no longer be able to request trips via the app. The company’s Help Centre will remain accessible until September 24, 2026, to assist customers with questions and issues related to the closure.
For drivers, the end of operations means they will stop receiving trip requests through the Uber platform. Uber says it is communicating directly with impacted employees, drivers, and riders to support them through the transition.
A Decade of Uber in Nigeria
Uber launched in Lagos in 2014 and quickly expanded to other Nigerian cities. Over the years, it also introduced new services, including Uber Boat in 2019, which offered commuters an alternative way to navigate Lagos’s notorious traffic.
Why Does Uber’s Exit Matter?
Uber’s withdrawal marks a significant shift in Nigeria’s ride-hailing industry. Thousands of independent drivers will lose access to the platform, while competitors may seize the opportunity to attract former Uber customers. The exit comes at a challenging time for the sector, which is grappling with rising operating costs, fare and commission disputes, and ongoing concerns about drivers’ working conditions.
