Global ride-hailing company Uber has announced its exit from Nigeria after 12 years of operation, effective today, September 2, 2026. The company disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, confirming the wind-down of its Nigerian operations.
Uber's Statement and Apology to Customers
In the statement, Uber acknowledged the difficulty of the decision, saying, “We are writing to share some difficult news. 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 expressed gratitude to Nigerian users, noting that since launching in Lagos in 2014, it has been “an absolute privilege” to connect riders with independent transportation providers.
Uber added, “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.” The firm apologized for potential disruption, stating, “We know this may cause disruption to your routine, and we sincerely apologize for the inconvenience.”
Timeline and Support for Final Queries
The company said its help centre will remain available until September 23 to assist customers with any final account queries. Uber also thanked users, saying, “Thank you for welcoming us into your city.”
This exit marks a broader trend for Uber, which has now pulled out of 14 countries across Asia and Africa since its launch in 2009. Reports also indicate that Ugandan users received similar messages today announcing Uber's exit from Uganda.
Impact on Nigerian Riders and Regional Presence
The departure from Nigeria, one of Africa's largest ride-hailing markets, will leave riders seeking alternatives from competitors. Uber's exit from 14 countries highlights its strategic retreat from less profitable regions, while focusing on core markets. For Nigerian users, the help center's availability until September 23 provides a window to resolve account issues before final closure.
