News Investigators/ Uber on Wednesday announced the discontinuation of its ride-hailing operations in Nigeria and Uganda, effective Sept. 2.
Lorraine Onduru, Head of Communications, Uber in East and West Africa, made this known in a statement in Lagos.
Ms Onduru said that the decision followed a review of its evolving business priorities and investment focus across Africa.
She also said that the resolution was limited to Nigeria and Uganda, and would not affect its operations across the rest of Africa.
“Uber remains deeply committed to Sub-Saharan Africa, where we continue to see robust growth and long-term opportunity,” Onduru said.
She said that its immediate priority was supporting affected drivers, riders and employees throughout the transition.
Ms Onduru said that Uber had begun communicating directly with affected employees, drivers and riders on arrangements following the discontinuation.
She said that active drivers would receive a token of appreciation as they transitioned out of the platform.
Ms Onduru also said that rider support would remain available for 21 days after operations ceased, to address outstanding and transition-related issues.
She said that Uber for Business services in Nigeria would also be discontinued as part of the exit, and partners were being contacted over the transition.
On data privacy, Onduru said that rider information would continue to be handled, in line with applicable data protection laws, privacy requirements and its data protection policies.
She said that data retention would be limited to legally required periods, while appropriate security controls would remain in place.
Ms Onduru also clarified that the company’s decision to exit Nigeria was not connected to the recent FAAN directive concerning e-hailing operations at Nigerian airports.
According to her, the exit is driven by its broader review of business priorities and investment focus across the continent.
NAN
