Uber Is Leaving Nigeria: Seven Things You Need To Know

Ride-hailing company Uber is leaving Nigeria after about 12 years of operations in the country.

Uber said it will discontinue its operations in Nigeria from Wednesday.

The company said the decision followed a review of its business priorities and investment focus across Africa.

Why is Uber leaving Nigeria?

Uber said it was a difficult decision and that the move is specific to Nigeria and Uganda. It did not give any further details about specific challenges in the Nigerian market.

The company said its exit from the two countries would not affect its operations in other African markets.

Uber also said the decision was unrelated to recent discussions around the operations of e-hailing companies at Nigerian airports.

Uber is also restructuring globally

The Nigeria exit comes as Uber announced plans to reduce its global workforce by about 10 per cent.

Chief Executive Officer Dara Khosrowshahi said the job cuts are part of organisational changes aimed at simplifying the company, reducing management layers and speeding up decision-making.

However, Uber has not said the global restructuring is the reason for its decision to leave Nigeria. The company has only cited a review of its business priorities and investment focus.

What happens to Uber users?

Once the company stops operating in Nigeria, riders will no longer be able to use the Uber app to request trips in the country.

Uber said its Help Centre will remain available until September 24, 2026, to assist customers with questions and other issues relating to the closure.

What happens to Uber drivers?

Drivers who use the Uber platform in Nigeria will no longer receive trip requests through the app after operations end.

The company said it was communicating directly with affected employees, drivers and riders about the transition.

How long has Uber operated in Nigeria?

Uber launched in Lagos in 2014 and later expanded its services to other Nigerian cities.

Uber’s expansion beyond car rides

Over the years, the company also introduced services beyond conventional car rides. In 2019, it launched Uber Boat in Lagos as an alternative transport option aimed at helping commuters navigate the city’s traffic.

Why does the exit matter?

Uber’s departure marks a major change in Nigeria’s ride-hailing industry after more than a decade of operations.

Thousands of independent drivers will lose access to the platform and the exit could give rival ride-hailing companies an opportunity to attract Uber’s customers.

It also comes at a time when Nigeria’s e-hailing sector has faced challenges, including rising vehicle operating costs, disputes over fares and commissions, and concerns about drivers’ working conditions.