By Aaron Hammond 
The global ride-hailing giant Uber shocked many tech lovers when it pulled out of two major African markets overnight. The company officially stopped working in Nigeria and Uganda with immediate effect. Many daily commuters and drivers were left confused after the sudden shutdown notice.
Even some active riders found themselves locked out while still on transit. This sudden exit forms part of a wider restructuring plan led by CEO Dara Khosrowshahi. The tech firm wants to channel money and resources into high-return areas like autonomous vehicles. Management also cut about three thousand three hundred jobs globally to reduce corporate bloat.
Operating in West and East Africa has grown quite tough amid steep economic pressures. In Nigeria, drivers frequently complained about high fuel prices and heavy commission charges. Tough competition from rival apps like Bolt and inDrive also reduced their profit margins. The company maintains that it still cares about the rest of sub-Saharan Africa. Operations will continue normally in countries like Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, and Egypt.
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