Uber exits Nigeria after 12 years, cites business review

Global ride-hailing company Uber has announced that it will cease operations in Nigeria from Wednesday, 2 September 2026, ending a 12-year presence in the country.

The company, which launched its service in Lagos in 2014, announced the decision in an email 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 said.

The company thanked customers for using its platform and acknowledged that its departure could disrupt their routines.

“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,” it said.

Uber said its help centre would remain available until 23 September to assist customers with final account-related queries.

The exit comes as the company announced plans to reduce its global workforce by about 10% as part of what it described as “significant organisational changes”.

Uber chief executive Dara Khosrowshahi said the restructuring was intended to make the company “simpler and faster” and reduce delays caused by its expanding organisational structure.

“A leaner organisation will mean clearer ownership, faster decisions, and more time spent building rather than coordinating,” Khosrowshahi said in a message to employees.

Uber employs about 34,000 people globally and operates in more than 70 countries, according to a recent US Securities and Exchange Commission filing.

Founded in 2009, the company transformed urban transport by allowing passengers to book rides through a mobile platform and connecting them with independent drivers.

It now operates in more than 15,000 cities and over 700 airports worldwide.

Uber’s withdrawal marks a significant development in Nigeria’s ride-hailing market and is likely to alter competition among operators, particularly in Lagos and other major urban centres.