Afrigather After shedding half of its workforce in Nigeria, Microsoft will scale back its workplace house on the Kings Tower constructing in Ikoyi from six flooring to 2, suggesting a scaleback in its Nigerian operations. One particular person with direct information of Microsoft’s enterprise stated the worldwide expertise firm might not renew its tenancy in 2025 when its present settlement runs out.
“Organizational and workforce changes are a obligatory and common a part of managing our enterprise,” Microsoft stated in an emailed assertion. “As we navigate these modifications, Microsoft stays steadfast in our dedication to Africa’s development and growth.”
Microsoft’s gross sales group, largely unaffected by layoffs earlier within the 12 months, will occupy the 2 flooring for the subsequent 12 months. Layoffs in Could and July 2024 affected many of the engineering group in Nigeria after the corporate closed its African Growth Centre (ADC) in Lagos. One particular person with information of the matter stated engineers who stayed on the group have been requested to relocate to Kenya to hitch new initiatives.
“Whereas we’ve got made the troublesome choice to shut the Africa Growth Centre in Nigeria, we wish to emphasize that this transfer doesn’t diminish our dedication to Nigeria and the area,” a spokesperson for Microsoft stated.
“We are going to proceed to function in Nigeria, actively supporting the nation’s transformation aims. Our funding in key development areas stays unwavering, and we’re decided to contribute to Africa’s progress by offering digital options, fostering innovation, and empowering native expertise.”
After it closed the ADC in June 2024, Olatomiwa Williams, the corporate’s Nigerian MD, met with Finance Minister Wale Edun and shared an analogous message.
The Nigerian aspect’s fear was comprehensible after Microsoft selected to web site a $1 billion funding in geothermal knowledge facilities in Kenya. It should additionally arrange an engineering group to supervise these investments within the nation. Kenya is now two for 2 within the race to draw international direct funding (FDI).
