Noida, Sep 3 (APAC Media): Uber Technologies is pulling out of Nigeria after 12 years, ending its ride-hailing operations in one of Africa’s biggest markets, the company said in a notice to customers.
The U.S.-based company launched its service in Lagos in 2014 and later expanded to several other Nigerian cities. Its departure marks a significant change in a market where app-based ride-hailing has become an important part of urban transport.
Uber said it had made the decision after reviewing its business in the country.
“After a thorough review of our business, we have made the tough decision to wind down our operations in Nigeria, effective 2 September 2026,” the company said in a message to customers.
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The company did not give a detailed explanation for the move or say how many drivers and riders would be affected. It also did not disclose whether it planned to sell or transfer any of its local assets.
“Our Help Centre will remain available until September 23 to assist customers with any outstanding account or service-related issues,” Uber said.
The exit comes at a difficult time for Nigeria’s ride-hailing industry. Drivers and operators have been dealing with higher fuel prices, rising inflation and sharp swings in the naira, all of which have pushed up the cost of running vehicles and maintaining services.
The pressures have also affected passengers; many of whom have faced higher fares as the cost of transportation rises across the country.
Uber’s departure leaves competitors such as Bolt and local ride-hailing companies with an opportunity to attract the company’s drivers and customers.
The move is not limited to Nigeria. Uber has also stopped its operations in Uganda, another African market where it had operated for more than a decade.
“An Uber spokesperson said in an emailed statement on Thursday that the company had also stopped operations in Uganda.”
The withdrawal marks the end of Uber’s 12-year journey in Nigeria, where the company helped change how many people in major cities booked taxis and moved around.
For drivers, the departure could mean finding alternative platforms to maintain their income, while passengers may have fewer choices in some areas.
The company’s decision also underlines the challenges international technology companies face in emerging markets, where currency instability, inflation and rising operating costs can quickly change the economics of running a business.
Uber did not say whether it could return to Nigeria at a later date. For now, its departure leaves other ride-hailing companies competing for a larger share of Nigeria’s growing but increasingly difficult mobility market.
News Agency Inputs
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is based on publicly available information. APAC Media is not responsible for investment decisions or losses. Please conduct your own research or consult a financial adviser before investing.
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