By Dipo Olowookere
Ride-hailing firm Uber has confirmed it will discontinue operations in Nigeria and Uganda “after a thorough review,” but downplayed speculation that this was prompted by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN)’s decision to ban operations of Uber, Bolt, and others at the nation’s airports.
A spokesperson of the company in a statement to Business Post on Wednesday clarified that, “Uber’s decision to discontinue operations in Nigeria was made following a review of its evolving business priorities and investment focus across Africa. The decision is not related to the recent FAAN directive concerning e-hailing operations at Nigerian airports.”
In the statement, the company noted that it was exiting Nigeria today, Wednesday, September 2, 2026, adding that, “This decision is limited strictly to these two markets and does not impact our operations across the rest of the continent.”
“Our immediate priority is supporting drivers, riders, and local team members throughout this transition. Uber remains deeply committed to Sub-Saharan Africa, where we continue to see robust growth and long-term opportunity,” the statement added.
Uber explained that its decision to leave Nigeria and Uganda was “part of evolving business priorities and investment focus across the continent,” emphasising that this action “does not affect Uber’s wider commitment to Sub-Saharan Africa.”
“We are focusing our investments on markets where we believe we can add the most value for drivers by providing earning opportunities at scale and enabling riders to go anywhere seamlessly,” it further said.
The firm said it has communicated directly and responsibly with affected employees, drivers and riders about what this means for them, and is committed to supporting affected employees through the transition and will communicate directly with them regarding the arrangements that apply to them.
As for the support being provided to drivers, Uber said it is in touch with “active drivers to extend a token of our appreciation as they transition over the next period.”
It assured that rider data will continue to be handled in accordance with applicable data protection laws, privacy requirements and Uber’s data protection policies.
“Uber will limit data retention to what is legally required, maintain appropriate security controls, and fulfil ongoing legal obligations and data requests.
“Riders can reach out to Uber through this privacy inquiry form if they have questions regarding their data privacy, need assistance with their personal data, or wish to submit a privacy request,” it stated.
The company disclosed that rider support will remain available for a period of 21 days following the discontinuation of operations to assist with outstanding queries and transition-related matters.
In addition, Uber for Business services will also be discontinued.
