We’ll Continue to Invest in Nigeria – Microsoft says After Closure of Engineering Arm

Following a report by Business Elites Africa about Microsoft’s decision to shut down its engineering arm, the Africa Development Centre (ADC), in Nigeria, the technology giant has affirmed its commitment to continue its other operations the country.

In an official statement issued on May 8 and shared with our correspondent, Microsoft confirmed that its employees at the ADC in Nigeria would be laid off but did not disclose the number of staff that would be disengaged. Reports say at least 200 staff members may lose their jobs.

Microsoft’s statement in part:

“Microsoft has decided to close the Africa Development Centre in Nigeria, and as a result, some of our employees based in Nigeria will be impacted.

We will continue to operate in Nigeria, and we remain committed to Nigeria’s transformation objectives, and as such will continue to invest in our business and key growth areas in the region.”

While the ADC in Lagos will be closing, Microsoft’s ADC in Nairobi, Kenya, will continue its operations.

Reason for ADC Closure

The company cited “organizational and workforce adjustments” as the reason for the closure of its Lagos office. 

It is believed that the decision was necessitated by the current economic turmoil in Nigeria, which has also influenced other multinationals to reassess their operations in the country.