The Nigerian e-hailing drivers’ union, the Amalgamated Union of App-based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), has blamed Uber‘s sudden…
The Nigerian e-hailing drivers’ union, the Amalgamated Union of App-based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), has blamed Uber‘s sudden exit from Nigeria on its exploitative model. The union disclosed this in a statement by its National Spokesperson, Comrade Jossy Adaraniwon, in which it described the exit as “unprofessional”.
Read here: Uber exits Nigeria after 12 years, says the country is no longer a priority
Recall that Uber announced its exit from Nigeria after more than a decade, saying it was “part of evolving business priorities and investment focus across the continent.” But the union strongly condemned the exit, stating that it was done irresponsibly and without consultation.
It was also done without a transition plan or regard for the thousands of Nigerian drivers who built the platform, an act which shows total disregard for workers’ rights and dignity.
The union also blamed the company for institutionalising this exploitative business model in Nigeria and held it responsible for the race-to-the-bottom that other apps are now copying.
“For the record, Uber’s exit is the direct consequence of its exploitative foundational business model.
A model that does not recognise the rights of workers, rejects collective bargaining, and prioritises profit over driver welfare. This template was strategically used by Bolt and InDrive to push Uber out of the market. The result today is longer waiting times, lower revenue for drivers, and fewer active drivers on the platforms because of poor working conditions,” the statement reads
AUATON drivers in Rivers State
It also warned that the development should be a clear lesson to Bolt and inDrive; it warned that they will suffer the same fate if they continue to operate without creating a genuine atmosphere for collective bargaining with it to protect and prioritise driver welfare.
The union notes that the moment an indigenous app with drivers’ interest enters the market, platforms that refuse dialogue will exit.
The union further insisted on its recognition as the sole bargaining representative of app-based transporters in Nigeria, fair pay and a just welfare package built into platform apps and collective agreements, and transparency, safety, and decent work in line with ILO standards for platform workers.
It also encouraged members not to be discouraged, as the exit shows that platforms built on exploitation systems cannot survive in Nigeria.
“To our members nationwide: Do not be discouraged. Uber’s exit proves that platforms built on exploitation cannot survive in Nigeria. We urge all drivers to remain united and to support platforms that are willing to sign collective agreements with AUATON,” the union said.
Ride-hailing company Uber is exiting the Nigerian and Ugandan markets from September 2. This was disclosed in a statement and memo shared with riders and customers. According to the company, the decision to exit Nigeria and Uganda is part of evolving business priorities and investment focus across the continent.
“After a thorough review, we have taken the difficult decision to wind down operations in Nigeria and Uganda, effective September 2, 2026. This decision is limited strictly to these two markets and does not impact our operations across the rest of the continent. Our immediate priority is supporting drivers, riders, and local team members throughout this transition. Uber remains deeply committed to Sub-Saharan Africa, where we continue to see robust growth and long-term opportunity,” an Uber spokesperson said.
The company said it has been in touch with active drivers to extend a token of its appreciation as they transition over the next period. It also expressed commitment to supporting affected employees through the transition and will communicate directly with them regarding the arrangements that apply to them.
AUATON, however, says it will not allow foreign platforms to come, exploit Nigerian drivers, and leave without accountability.
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