Uber Contributes ₦34 Billion to Nigeria’s Economy- New Report
In collaboration with the Lagos State Ministry of Transport, Uber hosted the Lagos Road Mobility Summit to foster dialogue on safer and more inclusive transportation solutions. Under the theme “Reimagining an Inclusive Road Safety Strategy,” the summit gathered senior government officials, including representatives from the Lagos State Ministry of Transport, the Federal Road Safety Corps, Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, and the World Bank’s SSATP team, alongside regulators, safety experts, and private sector leaders.
The event also marked the launch of Uber’s Nigeria Economic Impact Report, conducted by Public First, revealing that Uber contributed approximately ₦34 billion to Nigeria’s economy in 2023. The report highlights that Nigerian riders gained a consumer surplus valued at nearly ₦500 billion, thanks to savings in time, money, and convenience.
Beyond the numbers, the report shares stories of ordinary Nigerians — drivers earning income and gaining flexibility to support their families, women who rely on Uber for safe nighttime travel, and communities benefiting from enhanced tourism, nightlife, and local business growth.
Empowering Drivers and Supporting Livelihoods
Uber continues to be a vital source of income and independence for many Nigerians. In 2023, drivers earned an additional ₦6.1 billion, with their average earnings 34% higher than alternative options. The report emphasizes that the flexibility Uber offers—allowing drivers to choose their hours—adds an estimated ₦6.3 billion in value, enabling millions to balance work and family responsibilities.
A driver from Abuja shared: “Uber allows me to set my hours. I can take my children to school, work during the day, and still be home in the evenings. It truly gives me control over my life.”
Deepesh Thomas, Uber’s General Manager for Sub-Saharan Africa, stated, “Uber is more than just a transportation platform; it’s a catalyst for economic empowerment. From drivers who value the flexibility, to women feeling safer at night, and local businesses expanding their reach — Uber is proud to contribute to Nigeria’s growth story.”
Enhancing Safety and Convenience for Riders
Safety and convenience remain key reasons Nigerians prefer Uber. The report indicates that 98% of riders cite convenience, 97% safety, and 96% comfort as primary factors. Women, in particular, feel safer using Uber at night — with 78% stating it’s the safest option for late journeys. Additionally, 79% of riders believe Uber helps reduce drunk driving by providing a reliable, safe transportation alternative during nightlife hours.
A Lagos-based professional remarked, “When I work late, I trust Uber to get me home safely. My family can even track my trip, which gives us peace of mind.”
Supporting Nightlife, Tourism, and Local Economies
Uber’s influence extends to the communities it serves. In 2023, the platform contributed nearly ₦930 million in value to Nigeria’s nightlife economy, supporting safe access to restaurants, concerts, and entertainment venues. The tourism sector also benefited, with Uber adding ₦5.4 billion in value by facilitating easier exploration of destinations for both visitors and locals.
Moreover, riders saved over 1.8 million hours last year — time that can be spent with loved ones, pursuing business ventures, or enjoying life’s moments.
Pioneering Inclusive Road Safety Initiatives
The Nigeria Economic Impact Report was unveiled alongside the Lagos Road Mobility Summit, organized in partnership with the Lagos State Ministry of Transport. Key speakers included the Honourable Commissioner for Transport, represented by the Director of Transport Operations, Engr. Olasunkanmi Ojowuro; Lateef Ramoni from the Federal Road Safety Corps; and representatives from the African Association of Road Safety Lead Agencies. Marisela Ponce de Leon Valdes, Senior Transport Specialist at SSATP, shared insights from the Africa Road Safety Status Report 2025.
The summit featured a high-level panel discussion with transport leaders, including representatives from LASTMA, Uber, and other industry stakeholders. The gathering underscored the importance of collaboration among policymakers, regulators, safety advocates, and industry players to address Nigeria’s road safety challenges. It also highlighted the critical role of innovative, technology-driven platforms like Uber in creating safer, smarter, and more inclusive transportation systems.