Uber Cuts 10% of Its Workforce and Shuts Down in Nigeria and Uganda
Dara Khosrowshahi told staff everyone affected had already been notified, except in countries where the company will follow the required local process, and in the EU that process means consulting workers’ representatives before the decision is final (September 2, 2026).
Uber Technologies is cutting about 3,300 roles, roughly 10% of its workforce, and shutting down operations in Nigeria and Uganda as it redirects spending towards robotaxis. According to an internal memo, most affected individuals have already been informed, except in jurisdictions where local procedures apply, which in the EU involves consultation with workers’ representatives and a 30-day waiting period post-notification to authorities.
The company cites structural reasons for the restructuring, citing more layers, more coordination, and fragmented ownership. Manager positions are reduced by 20%, and micro-teams are halved.
A notable difference in the memo is the specific reference to Europe. It states that while most employees have been notified, consultation with representatives is required in "countries where we will follow the required local process." This phrasing is legally accurate but implies a delay in the process.
In the European Union, the Collective Redundancies Directive mandates consultation with worker representatives prior to any dismissals, with a view to reaching agreement. Notifying individuals first is not an option for employers in the EU. The directive requires providing written information about reasons, timing, affected worker categories, selection criteria, and compensation calculations. Notification to the state must occur no earlier than 30 days after the competent public authority is informed, during which time they can explore alternative solutions.
Uber’s own statement sets this boundary. In other regions, the company informed employees of the changes, but in Europe, it is legally bound to open a dialogue it cannot present as already concluded.
The freed-up funds will be allocated to autonomy, with Uber committing over $10 billion to robotaxi partnerships. TNW reported Uber opening a waitlist in London with Wayve. Analysts estimate annual savings between $1.5 billion and $2 billion. Bloomberg Intelligence notes that heavier spending on autonomous vehicles may absorb much of this in the near term. Headcount falls to approximately 30,000, matching its 2021 level.
The African retreat benefits Bolt, Uber’s main competitor in Nigeria, which TNW reported raising €220 million ahead of an IPO. While Bolt is not exiting Nigeria, Uber’s share has been eroded by both Bolt and newer local entrants. This is the trade Uber is making—swapping geography for autonomy.
By Alina Maria Stan