End of an Era: Uber Ceases Operations in Nigeria After Decade-Long Run

Ride-hailing giant Uber has announced its decision to discontinue operations in Nigeria and Uganda, effective 2 September. The company cited a strategic review of its evolving business priorities and investment focus across Africa as the primary reason for this significant move. Uber clarified that this decision is limited strictly to these two markets and will not impact its operations in other African nations, reaffirming its deep commitment to Sub-Saharan Africa, where it continues to observe robust growth and long-term opportunities.

This departure comes weeks after a controversy erupted concerning the operations of e-hailing platforms at Nigerian airports. On 30 July, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) had instructed airport managers to prohibit Uber and Bolt from commercial operations at its managed airports until licence agreements were finalized. This directive led to public complaints about increased airport transport fares, prompting Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo to intervene on 27 August, directing FAAN to resolve the issues. Following this intervention, Bolt was subsequently cleared to resume operations.

Despite the timing, Uber explicitly stated that its decision to exit Nigeria is unrelated to the recent FAAN directive concerning e-hailing operations at Nigerian airports. The company reiterated that its exit was a result of a comprehensive review of its business priorities and investment focus across the continent, emphasizing its commitment to investing in markets where it can deliver the most value for drivers through earning opportunities at scale and seamless rider experiences.

Uber's immediate priority following this announcement is to support its affected drivers, riders, and local team members through the transition period. The company has committed to communicating directly and responsibly with affected employees regarding their arrangements and providing support during this time. Active drivers will receive a token of appreciation as they transition. Rider data will continue to be managed in strict adherence to applicable data protection laws, privacy requirements, and Uber's internal policies, with data retention limited to legal requirements and appropriate security controls maintained. Rider support services will remain accessible for 21 days post-discontinuation to assist with queries. Additionally, Uber for Business services will also be discontinued, with partners being supported through their transition.

Uber first launched its services in Lagos, Nigeria, in 2014, and later expanded to Abuja in March 2016, a city that marked its 400th global launch at the time. Uber Nigeria is an integral part of Uber Technologies Inc., the US-based, publicly traded company headquartered in San Francisco, California.