LAGOS — Ride-hailing pioneer Uber has shocked millions of commuters and drivers across West Africa by announcing the immediate closure of its operations in Nigeria and Uganda, effective Wednesday, September 2, 2026.
Tripod Times reports that the sudden exit terminates a 12-year presence in Africa’s most populous nation, where Uber first launched services in Lagos in 2014.
In an emotional email sent to both riders and independent drivers, the US-based tech giant stated:
“After a thorough review of our business, we have made the tough decision to wind down our operations in Nigeria, effective 2 September 2026. Since we first launched in Lagos in 2014, it has been an absolute privilege to be a part of your daily life connecting you with independent transportation providers.”
While Uber’s internal statement framing the exit blamed a “thorough review of its business,” international tech observers note that the company is grappling with massive global restructuring. The broader plan involves cutting 3,300 corporate jobs—about 10% of its global workforce—as Chief Executive Dara Khosrowshahi shifts corporate investment away from traditional labor markets and toward autonomous vehicles and robotaxis.
Locally, however, Uber has faced an increasingly hostile economic environment in Nigeria. Escalating operational expenses, astronomical fuel price hikes, recurring regulatory bottlenecks, and fierce competition from alternative regional apps like Bolt and local alternatives have squeezed profit margins tight.
The sudden decision leaves thousands of independent gig-workers stranded. To cushion the blow, Uber has confirmed it will extend a one-off “goodwill payment” to registered drivers to ease the sudden transition.
For passengers, the Uber Help Centre will remain operational through September 23, 2026, to resolve any final profile billing discrepancies, refund outstanding credits, or settle account queries.
Despite pulling the plug on Nigeria and Uganda, Uber maintains that it remains committed to other sub-Saharan African territories, explicitly stating that its operations in places like South Africa, Kenya, and Ghana will continue unaffected.
