Uber has announced the immediate withdrawal of its ride-hailing services from Nigeria, ending its operations in the country effective Wednesday, September 2, 2026.
The global ride-hailing company announced the decision in a message sent to drivers on Wednesday, informing them that they would no longer receive requests from passengers through the Uber app.
Uber said the decision followed a review of its business operations in Nigeria, although it did not provide specific details explaining why it chose to leave the Nigerian market.
“We have made the tough decision to wind down our operations in Nigeria, effective September 2, 2026, the company told drivers.
From this date, you will no longer be able to receive rider trip requests through the Uber app.
The announcement marks a major development for Nigeria’s rapidly evolving ride-hailing sector, where app-based transportation services have become an important option for commuters, particularly in major urban centres.
Uber described the decision as difficult and expressed appreciation to drivers who had supported its operations since the company entered the Nigerian market.
“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.
The company also praised drivers for their contribution to urban transportation, acknowledging their role in helping residents move around cities safely and affordably.
For years, your commitment to your riders has kept this city moving safely and affordably,” Uber said.
The ride-hailing giant further highlighted the impact of its platform in Nigeria, describing the service as a technology link between passengers and independent drivers.
“We are so proud of what the platform has been able to achieve in Nigeria, serving as the technology bridge between riders and your independent services,” the company said.
Despite announcing its exit, Uber did not disclose additional information about the factors that led to the decision in its communication to drivers.
The company said its Help Centre would remain available to drivers’ seeking clarification or assistance following the shutdown.
According to Uber, the Help Centre will remain open until September 24, 2026, to address questions relating to the development.
The exit brings an end to Uber’s presence in Nigeria and is expected to have implications for both drivers and commuters who rely on ride-hailing platforms for transportation.
The company’s departure also leaves competitors and other mobility platforms operating in Nigeria with an opportunity to strengthen their positions in the country’s increasingly competitive ride-hailing market.
Uber’s withdrawal comes after years of providing app-based transportation services to Nigerians, connecting passengers with independent drivers through its digital platform.
For many users, the company had become a familiar part of urban mobility, particularly in busy cities where demand for convenient, app-based transportation continued to grow.
The full impact of Uber’s decision on Nigeria’s ride-hailing industry, drivers and passengers is expected to become clearer in the coming days.
