By Ukumbi Afrika 
Abuja—Ride-hailing company Uber Technologies is ending its operations in Nigeria, bringing its 12-year presence in Africa’s most populous country to a close.
Uber said in a notice to customers on Wednesday that it would cease operations effective September 2, 2026, following a review of its Nigerian business.
“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 said.
The company did not provide further details on the reasons behind the decision.
Rising Costs, Intensifying Competition
Uber’s exit comes as Nigeria’s ride-hailing industry faces growing pressure from rising fuel costs, high inflation, currency volatility and increasing operating expenses.
Competition has also intensified in recent years, putting pressure on both drivers and ride-hailing platforms as companies compete for passengers while attempting to maintain affordable fares.
Uber first entered Nigeria in 2014, launching in Lagos before expanding into other Nigerian cities as demand for app-based transportation grew.
The company’s departure marks a significant change in Nigeria’s increasingly competitive digital mobility sector.
Customer Support to Continue
Uber said its Help Centre would remain available until September 23 to assist customers with outstanding account-related issues.
The company did not disclose how many drivers or riders would be affected by the shutdown, nor did it say whether any Nigerian assets would be sold.
Uber's exit leaves a significant gap in Nigeria's ride-hailing market and could create opportunities for rival platforms to expand their driver and customer bases.
Source: Reuters
Reporting: Chijioke Ohuocha
Editing: David Goodman