Uber exits Nigeria and Uganda, leaving drivers facing financial strain

Uber has announced the cessation of its ride‑hailing services in Nigeria and Uganda, ending operations that had been active in the two markets for several years. The withdrawal, attributed to a combination of regulatory challenges and an unfavorable business environment, has left a large number of passengers without an alternative platform for on‑demand transportation. In Nigeria, where Uber once accounted for a significant share of urban trips, the exit removes a major source of mobility for commuters in Lagos, Abuja and other cities, while in Uganda the company’s departure eliminates one of the few formalized ride‑sharing options available to residents of Kampala and its environs.

The shutdown also impacts the drivers who relied on the platform for income. With global fuel prices climbing and vehicle maintenance costs rising, many former Uber partners report that earnings have become insufficient to cover basic expenses. Drivers have cited the loss of the app’s fare‑guarantee system and the absence of a reliable stream of ride requests as exacerbating their financial strain. As the companies that replaced Uber’s services are still in the early stages of rollout, industry observers note that drivers may face an uncertain period before new arrangements provide comparable support and revenue stability.