Uber has discontinued its ride-hailing operations in Nigeria and Uganda, ending its services in the two African markets effective September 2, 2026.

The US-based ride-hailing company said the decision followed a review of its evolving business priorities and investment focus across Africa. However, Uber stressed that its departure from Nigeria is not related to the recent dispute over e-hailing operations at Nigerian airports.

The exit comes weeks after the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) directed managers of airports under its control to stop Uber and Bolt from operating commercially pending the finalisation of licence agreements. The directive triggered concerns over increased transport fares at airports.

Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo subsequently directed FAAN on August 27 to address the concerns, after which Bolt was cleared to resume operations at FAAN-managed airports. Uber, however, said its decision to leave Nigeria had been taken independently of the airport directive.

“Uber’s decision to discontinue operations in Nigeria was made following a review of its evolving business priorities and investment focus across Africa,” the company said. “The decision is not related to the recent FAAN directive concerning e-hailing operations at Nigerian airports.”

Uber said the withdrawal is strictly limited to Nigeria and Uganda and will not affect its operations in other African countries. The company said its priority during the transition is to support affected drivers, riders and local employees.

The company also said it would communicate directly with affected staff, drivers and riders about transition arrangements. Active drivers have been contacted and offered a token of appreciation, while rider support will remain available for 21 days after the discontinuation of operations.

Uber further said rider data would continue to be handled under applicable data protection and privacy laws. Its Uber for Business services will also end in Nigeria as part of the withdrawal, with the company saying it is working with affected partners during the transition.

Uber launched in Lagos in 2014 before expanding to Abuja in March 2016. The company described Abuja at the time as its 400th city globally. Despite its departure from Nigeria and Uganda, Uber said it remains committed to Sub-Saharan Africa and will continue investing in markets where it sees opportunities to create earning opportunities for drivers and provide mobility services for riders.