Uber shuts down operations in Nigeria and Uganda after 12 years 

Global ride-hailing giant Uber has officially ended operations in Nigeria and Uganda, marking the end of more than a decade of services in the two African markets.

The company announced that it would wind down its Nigerian operations on September 2, 2026, after a review of its business priorities and investment strategy across Africa. Uber launched in Lagos in 2014, later expanding its services to connect users with independent drivers for everyday transportation.

In Uganda, Uber also closed its operations on the same date, nearly 10 years after entering the market. The company launched in Kampala in June 2016, becoming one of the first major international ride-hailing platforms to operate in the country.

Uber apologised to customers affected by the shutdown and said its Help Centre would remain available until September 23 to assist with final account-related enquiries.

The company said the decision was part of a broader global review and did not signal a complete withdrawal from Africa. Uber has previously exited or reduced operations in several countries, including China, Russia, Singapore, and Italy Malaysia, as it focuses on markets with stronger returns.

The exit comes as Uber faces increasing competition in Africa’s ride-hailing sector, with rivals such as Bolt and inDrive gaining ground by offering lower fares, flexible pricing models, and services tailored to local consumer needs.

Analysts say Uber’s departure highlights the challenge of operating in price-sensitive markets where large populations do not always translate into profitable business opportunities. While Nigeria has more than 200 million people and a growing demand for transportation services, many customers prioritise affordability over brand loyalty.

Meanwhile, Uber is undergoing a major global restructuring, cutting about 3,300 jobs, representing roughly 10 per cent of its workforce.

The company plans to reduce management layers, streamline teams, and redirect savings toward ride-hailing, delivery services, and autonomous vehicle technology.

Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi said the company had developed structures that made sense when the business was smaller and that the changes would help improve decision-making and future growth.

The company’s exit from Nigeria and Uganda has sparked debate about the future of global companies in African markets, with observers arguing that success requires business models built around local economic realities and consumer behaviour.