Uber ends its 12-year ride-hailing operations in Nigeria, with the company citing a review of its evolving business priorities and investment focus across Africa, and doing so effective September 2, 2026. The announcement triggers political reaction, including comments from opposition figures.
ADC presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, reacting to Uber’s exit, argues that President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms make transport too expensive for users and less profitable for drivers. Through his spokesman, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku contends that higher fuel costs, increased costs for spare parts, repairs and loans, naira depreciation, and additional taxes and licensing fees reduce passengers’ purchasing power and drivers’ earnings. He frames this as “stealth tax on movement” that he says empties people’s pockets and undermines business viability.
The outlets report the same core facts about Uber’s departure and Atiku’s criticism, but present them mainly through a political lens—linking the company’s exit to broader economic policy impacts rather than offering additional details from Uber on specific drivers of the decision beyond its stated global review.
