Microsoft reaffirms commitment to Nigeria, debunks shutdown rumors

Microsoft has refuted rumors that it plans to shut down its Nigerian operations, following last month’s speculations that the tech giant was contemplating closing its Lagos innovation center due to concerns over the country’s business climate. The rumored shutdown was believed to potentially impact around 200 employees.

Olatomiwa Williams, Microsoft’s country manager for Nigeria, addressed these rumors in a meeting with the Nigerian minister of finance and coordinating minister of the economy in Abuja. Mohammed Manga, the ministry’s director of information and public relations, briefed the press on the discussions between the minister and Microsoft representatives.

Manga conveyed that the managing director assured the minister of Microsoft’s dedication to its Nigerian operations, dispelling the recent speculations. Williams highlighted Microsoft’s eagerness to collaborate with the Nigerian government on shared interests such as cybersecurity and youth skills development.

The purpose of the Microsoft team’s attendance at the meeting was twofold: to clarify the inaccuracies in the media regarding their supposed exit and to seek opportunities for partnership with the Nigerian government.

Manga noted that the Nigerian government reaffirmed its commitment to creating an attractive business environment for international companies to invest and aid in the nation’s economic growth.

The minister welcomed Microsoft’s reaffirmation to Nigeria and acknowledged the critical role of industry leaders like Microsoft in the strategic landscape.

The meeting is seen as a significant move towards fostering a constructive relationship between the Nigerian government and global tech corporations, aiming to leverage their presence for the country’s technological and economic advancement.