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Uber has stopped its ride-hailing operations in Nigeria and Uganda, bringing an immediate end to its services in two African markets.
The company announced its exit from Nigeria on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, saying the decision followed a review of its business.
Uber informed customers that it would wind down its operations in the country with immediate effect.
“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 told users.
The move ends Uber’s 12-year presence in Nigeria, one of Africa’s largest and most important markets.
Uber Leaves Nigeria After 12 Years
Uber launched its services in Lagos in 2014 before expanding to other Nigerian cities.
Over the years, the company became one of the major players in Nigeria’s growing ride-hailing industry, connecting passengers with drivers through its mobile application.
However, the sector has faced growing pressure from higher fuel prices, inflation, currency volatility and increasing competition.
Several ride-hailing platforms now compete for customers and drivers in Nigeria, putting pressure on companies to maintain affordable fares while dealing with rising operating costs.
Uber has not disclosed how many drivers, passengers or other users will be directly affected by its departure.
The company has also not announced what will happen to its assets or business infrastructure in the country.
Uganda Operations Also End
Uber’s exit has also extended to Uganda.
An Uber spokesperson confirmed on Thursday that the company had stopped its operations in the East African country.
Customers attempting to request rides through the Uber application in Uganda were reportedly shown a message indicating that no rides were available.
The company did not immediately provide detailed reasons for ending its Ugandan operations.
Growing Pressure on Ride-Hailing Companies
Uber’s departure comes at a challenging time for the ride-hailing industry across Africa.
Companies operating in the sector have had to deal with higher fuel and vehicle maintenance costs while drivers face rising living expenses.
Currency fluctuations in some African markets have also increased the cost of running technology platforms and maintaining operations.
At the same time, customers continue to demand affordable fares, while drivers expect earnings that can cover their operating costs.
The combination has created a difficult environment for ride-hailing companies seeking sustainable growth.
What Uber’s Exit Means
Uber’s departure from Nigeria and Uganda will leave customers looking for alternative ride-hailing services.
For competing platforms, the exits could create an opportunity to attract Uber drivers and customers, particularly in major cities where demand for app-based transport remains strong.
The move also raises questions about the long-term sustainability of ride-hailing operations in African markets where companies must balance affordability with rising business costs.
Uber’s decision is another major development in Africa’s fast-changing technology and transport sector.
The company continues to operate in other African markets, but its withdrawal from Nigeria and Uganda highlights the challenges global technology companies can face when operating in highly competitive and cost-sensitive markets.v
