The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has launched an inquiry into Uber’s decision to exit Nigeria, with a focus on possible outstanding obligations to riders and drivers.
FCCPC Chief Executive Officer, Tunji Bello, said the commission was investigating the circumstances surrounding the ride-hailing company’s departure, including services and customer obligations that may have remained unfulfilled when it ended operations.
Bello disclosed this in a message to Bloomberg, saying the commission was examining the company’s activities and responsibilities during the transition.
Uber announced on September 2 that it would wind down its operations in Nigeria and Uganda, bringing its 12-year presence in the Nigerian market to an end.
The company did not disclose a specific reason for the decision, saying it followed a review of its business priorities. It stressed that the move was limited to Nigeria and Uganda and would not affect its operations in other African countries.
Uber said its immediate priority was to support its drivers, riders and employees throughout the transition.
The company began operations in Lagos in 2014 and subsequently became one of the major players in Nigeria’s ride-hailing sector.
However, it faced increasing competition from companies such as Bolt, alongside weaker consumer spending and rising operating costs.
Uber also denied that its withdrawal from Nigeria was linked to a recent directive by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) restricting e-hailing pick-ups at airports.
The directive had triggered complaints from passengers, following which FAAN said it was engaging ride-hailing operators to develop a new framework for safety and airport access.
The FCCPC’s latest inquiry could determine whether Uber has outstanding consumer or driver-related obligations that must be addressed before its complete withdrawal from the Nigerian market.
