Bolt says it is staying put.
The ride-hailing company has reaffirmed its commitment to Nigeria following Uber’s decision to shut down its operations in the country, promising continued investment, support for drivers and riders, and expansion of its services.
The company said Nigeria remains a key market and assured customers, drivers and other partners that Uber’s departure would not change its long-term plans.
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‘We Remain Firmly Committed’
Teddy Appa-Dankyi, Senior General Manager of Bolt West Africa, said the company had built a substantial community of drivers and riders in Nigeria and intended to keep strengthening that network.
“Nigeria remains an important market for Bolt, and we remain firmly committed to the country,” Appa-Dankyi said.
He acknowledged that Uber’s withdrawal could create uncertainty across the ride-hailing industry but said Bolt was focused on its long-term presence in the Nigerian market.
The company said it would continue engaging with:
- Drivers
- Riders
- Regulators
- Other industry partners
The objective, Appa-Dankyi said, is to support a mobility system that is reliable, accessible and sustainable.
Why Uber Is Leaving
Uber announced on Wednesday that it would discontinue operations in Nigeria and Uganda from September 2, 2026.
The company said the decision followed a review of its investment priorities across Africa and was specific to the two countries.
Uber said it was redirecting resources toward markets where it believes it can generate greater value for drivers and expand earning opportunities.
The company also rejected suggestions that its Nigerian exit was linked to a recent dispute involving e-hailing services at airports.
What Happened at Nigerian Airports?
The clarification comes after reports suggested that Uber, Bolt and other ride-hailing operators had been prohibited from operating at Nigerian airports.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) previously denied that a blanket ban had been imposed.
FAAN subsequently said Bolt had been authorised to resume e-hailing services at airports under its management after a temporary interruption.
That means the airport dispute should not be confused with Uber’s separate decision to leave the Nigerian market.
Fewer Choices for Riders?
With Uber gone, Nigerians looking for app-based transport can still turn to platforms such as Bolt, LagRide and inDrive.
But Uber’s departure could reshape the competitive landscape.
For years, riders have been able to compare fares, availability and service across multiple platforms. Drivers, meanwhile, have had the option of moving between apps depending on demand, earnings and operating conditions.
Uber’s exit removes one of those major choices.
Drivers who relied heavily on the platform may now face a decision: move to another service, split their time across the remaining platforms, or leave ride-hailing altogether.
Bolt Faces a New Opportunity—and New Pressure
Uber’s withdrawal gives Bolt an obvious opportunity to strengthen its position in Nigeria.
But greater market share also means greater expectations.
With fewer major competitors, drivers and riders are likely to watch closely for changes in fares, commissions, earnings, service quality and working conditions.
For now, Bolt’s message is clear: while one major player is leaving, Bolt intends to remain a major force on Nigeria’s roads.