Nigeria Job Loss Looms: Microsoft Eyed to Shut Down Lagos Development Center, 200 Employees Affected

Reports indicate Microsoft's potential closure of its Lagos Development Center, jeopardizing 200 jobs. The move spells uncertainty for Nigeria's tech landscape and innovation prospects. While the company remains tight-lipped, economic challenges are speculated to drive the decision. The shutdown threatens to disrupt the region's burgeoning tech industry.

Reports have surfaced indicating that Microsoft is contemplating the closure of its African Development Centre (ADC) situated in Lagos, Nigeria, presenting a significant setback for the country's growing tech industry.

The potential closure, if realized, could have far-reaching implications, impacting job prospects and technological innovation in Nigeria. Sources speaking to The Guardian revealed that Microsoft notified staff of the closure plans, although an official confirmation from the company is yet to emerge. While details surrounding the decision remain unclear, economic challenges in Nigeria are believed to have influenced Microsoft's deliberations.

It's worth noting that the closure is expected to affect only the ADC's operations in West Africa, with the Nairobi facility in East Africa remaining unaffected. Microsoft initiated its $100 million African Development Centers initiative in 2019, establishing centers in Lagos and Nairobi.

The Lagos center, inaugurated in 2022, initially employed over 120 engineers, with the staff count surpassing 200 over time. Gafar Lawal, Managing Director of Microsoft ADC West Africa, emphasized the abundance of talent in Africa and the center's role in addressing regional challenges through innovative tech solutions.

However, the closure of the Lagos center raises concerns about the future of tech development and employment opportunities in Nigeria, especially amidst the global push for digital transformation.