Uber exits Nigeria after 12 years, offers drivers “goodwill payment”

Uber is ending its operations in Nigeria after 12 years, withdrawing from one of Africa’s largest and most competitive ride-hailing markets.

The US-based company told customers on Wednesday that its Nigerian operations would cease on September 2, following a review of its business.

“We are writing to share some difficult news,” Uber said in a message to customers. “After a thorough review of our business, we have made the tough decision to wind down our operations in Nigeria, effective 2 September 2026.”

Uber did not provide further details on the factors behind the decision.

The exit brings an end to a 12-year presence in Nigeria that began with its launch in Lagos in 2014. The company subsequently expanded to other Nigerian cities as app-based transportation gained popularity among urban commuters.

Uber’s departure comes as Nigeria’s ride-hailing industry faces a more difficult operating environment, marked by intense competition, regulatory problems and rising costs. Higher fuel prices, inflation and naira volatility have increased the cost of running vehicles and put pressure on both drivers and ride-hailing platforms.

The company did not disclose how many drivers or riders would be affected by the shutdown.

In a separate message to drivers, Uber acknowledged the impact of the decision and thanked them for their participation in its Nigerian operations.

“We know this is heavy news, and we want to express our deepest gratitude to you for being a part of our journey in Nigeria,” the company said.

Uber said it would make a one-off “goodwill payment” to drivers to help ease the impact of the shutdown.

The company also apologised to customers for the disruption and thanked them for using the platform since its arrival in Nigeria.

“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,” Uber said.

“Whether it was a morning commute, a ride to see loved ones, or exploring the city, thank you for trusting the platform to connect you to a driver to get you there safely.”

Uber said its help centre would remain available until September 23 to assist customers with outstanding account and other final queries.

The company’s exit is a major development for Nigeria’s ride-hailing industry, where Uber was among the earliest major international platforms and helped establish app-based ride-hailing as a mainstream alternative to traditional urban transport.

Its departure leaves competitors to compete for drivers and passengers in a market that has changed significantly since Uber launched in Lagos.

Uber operates globally across more than 70 countries and thousands of cities and remains one of the world’s largest ride-hailing platforms.