Uber’s exit opens a new chapter in the Nigerian ride-hailing market as ProTaxi launches plans

The ride-hailing services industry in Nigeria is entering a new phase following the exit of global e-booking services company Uber from the country after 12 years of operations, with domestic platforms and new entrants expected to compete for opportunities in the ever-expanding transport market.

One company preparing to enter this sector is PromiseLand Innovations Limited, which plans to launch a ride-hailing platform, ProTaxi.

The planned launch comes just weeks after Uber announced the end of its operations in Nigeria, effective September 2, 2026, following what the company described as a review of its business priorities and investment focus.

ProTaxi is being developed as a locally owned technology platform designed to connect passengers with drivers in Nigerian cities, and the company identified affordability, technology and environmental sustainability as key focus areas.

A key part of the company’s proposed strategy is the gradual adoption of electric vehicles, which it believes could help reduce vehicle operating costs and potentially reduce passenger transportation costs.

The company said, “We believe that travel should be easy, affordable and environmentally responsible.”

ProTaxi is owned by Amb. Lawrence Oloche, whose PromiseLand business interests also include real estate development.

According to the company, the ride-hailing platform will provide drivers with flexibility in determining their work schedule, allowing them to operate full-time or during specific periods.

For passengers, the platform is expected to offer app-based travel booking, location services, different payment options, travel information and access to travel receipts.

The proposed safety features include driver verification, real-time trip tracking, ratings and reviews, as well as the option for passengers to share their live location with family members and friends.

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PromiseLand Innovations said it also intends to pursue a long-term strategy built on green transportation and increased use of greener alternative energy.

The entry of new players comes at a crucial time for Nigeria’s ride-hailing industry, which has been transformed by Uber’s departure after more than a decade in the country.

Uber’s exit has drawn attention to the difficult operational environment facing the ride-hailing business, including rising operating costs, inflation and broader economic pressures, while creating new competition for companies looking to serve passengers and drivers in Nigeria’s major cities.

For ProTaxi, the launch is an attempt to enter a market that is still highly competitive but has changed with the departure of one of its best-known global operators.

The company is betting on a combination of locally developed technology, flexible opportunities for drivers, and a long-term focus on electric mobility as it prepares to take over Nigeria’s changing e-hailing services landscape.

Ahead of its planned launch, the ProTaxi rider app is available on iPhone and Android devices.