Uber has ended its ride-hailing operations in Nigeria; it brought its service to a close on Wednesday after years of connecting passengers with independent drivers through its mobile platform.
The company announced the shutdown in a message to its drivers. It stated that operations would cease effective September 2, 2026. From that date, drivers would no longer receive trip requests from passengers through the Uber application.
“We have made the tough decision to wind down our operations in Nigeria, effective September 2, 2026,” the company said.
The announcement marks a significant change in Nigeria’s app-based transport market where digital platforms have reshaped how passengers arrange private rides and how drivers access customers.
Uber, however, did not give a specific reason for its departure. The notice to drivers only said the decision followed a review of its business without providing details about the commercial, regulatory, or operational considerations behind the withdrawal.
The company described the development as difficult news and thanked drivers who had participated in its Nigerian operations.
“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,” Uber said.
The ride-hailing firm also recognised the role its drivers played in keeping its service available to passengers over the years.
“For years, your commitment to your riders has kept this city moving safely and affordably,” it said.
Uber entered Nigeria’s urban transport space by offering passengers a technology-based alternative to traditional methods of securing private rides. Its platform linked people seeking transportation with independent drivers with the application handling the connection between both sides.
The company said it was proud of the platform’s contribution to the Nigerian market.
“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,” Uber said.
Its exit therefore affects more than the availability of a familiar ride-hailing application. It also closes a chapter in the development of Nigeria’s digital transport economy in which smartphone-based platforms have become part of everyday urban mobility.
For drivers who relied on the application to receive passengers, the immediate consequence is the loss of access to Uber trip requests from Wednesday.
The company has nevertheless provided a short window for affected drivers to seek clarification. Its Help Centre will continue handling questions relating to the shutdown until September 24, 2026.
“Our Help Center will remain open until 24 September ’26 to assist you with any questions,” Uber said.
The company gave no indication in the notice of any planned resumption of its Nigerian service.
Its final message to drivers was a note of appreciation for their participation in the platform’s Nigerian journey.
“Thank you for being a part of the Uber community,” the company said.
The withdrawal leaves Nigeria’s ride-hailing market facing a notable shift as users and drivers adjust to the disappearance of one of the platforms that helped establish app-based private transportation as a mainstream service in the country.
READ RELATED NEWS UPDATES
Uber, Indrive, Bolt drivers, others threaten to shut down operations in Lagos
Electric vehicle drivers could face new tax in upcoming budget
Amazon dismisses 150 unionised drivers in Queens
