Global tech giant Microsoft has announced the closure of its Africa Development Centre (ADC) located in Lagos, Nigeria. The decision, confirmed by a top official at the company, comes as part of what Microsoft describes as “normal organizational workforce adjustments.”
Dispelling rumors suggesting financial losses or economic concerns in Nigeria as reasons for the closure, the Microsoft official clarified that the decision was unrelated to the country’s economic conditions. Instead, it was framed as a strategic move aligned with the company’s global business management.
The closure of the Africa Development Centre is set to impact some of the employees based in Nigeria. However, Microsoft has assured that affected workers will receive their full salaries up until June and will continue to be covered by health insurance. Additionally, the company has pledged support to mitigate the impact of the closure on the affected employees.
The Africa Development Centre, established in May 2019 with the mission to create innovative technology solutions not only for Africa but for the global market, was an investment by Microsoft. With over 200 engineers, predominantly Nigerian, the centre was housed in a state-of-the-art facility in Ikoyi, Lagos, symbolizing Microsoft’s commitment to the region.
