Uber shuts down services in Nigeria and Uganda
+3 new sources since this summary was written
Uber Technologies announced that it stopped ride‑hailing operations in Nigeria and Uganda on 2 September 2026, ending a 16‑year presence in Uganda and a decade‑long run in Nigeria. The exits complete a series of market withdrawals that also included Tanzania and Ivory Coast over the previous year. Uber said the moves reflect low disposable incomes and high operating costs that made its pricing model unsustainable in those markets. The company will continue operating in other African countries and plans to invest about $300 million in South Africa.
Why it matters
The shutdown removes Uber’s platform from two of Africa’s largest ride‑hailing markets, affecting roughly 50,000 Nigerian drivers who must find alternative income sources. Investors should expect a short‑term impact on Uber’s African revenue and possible regulatory scrutiny in Nigeria, where the competition authority has opened a probe into the departure.
Key facts
- 1Uber ceased operations in Nigeria and Uganda on 2 September 2026. monitor.co.ug
- 2The company’s exit ends a 16‑year presence in Uganda’s ride‑hailing market. monitor.co.ug
- 3Around 50,000 drivers in Nigeria used Uber’s platform before the shutdown. investing.com
- 4Uber plans to invest over $300 million in South Africa. investing.com
- 5Nigeria’s Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has opened an investigation into Uber’s departure. investing.com
- 6Bolt now operates in eight African countries compared with Uber’s six. investing.com
Summary written by AlphAI AI Desk from 3 of 3 sources. Not investment advice. Figures are as stated by the linked sources.