Update: We updated this story with confirmation that the center is shutting down
News reports are circulating that Microsoft is shutting down its African Development Centre (ADC) in Lagos, Nigeria.
Details
According to the reports, the management of Microsoft on Monday informed staff of the closure and stated that all affected staff might be paid their salaries till June in addition to their Health Maintenance Organisations (HMOs).
At the moment, sources say the ADC shutdown is only affected in Nigeria and not in its other site located in Nairobi, Kenya.
What They’re Saying
“Organizational and workforce adjustments are a necessary and regular part of managing our business,” a Microsoft spokesperson said in the email response.
“We will continue to prioritize and invest in strategic growth areas for our future and in support of our customers and partners.”
Zoom Out
The ADC was launched in Nigeria in 2022 after it was set up in 2019. It formed part of Microsoft’s $100 million investment for two development centres in Africa, with the other located in Nairobi.
Since its launch, ADC was reported to have hired 120 engineers and more than 200 total employees in Nigeria.
The ADC aimed to facilitate the creation of tech solutions that will solve both African and global problems.
Update: We updated our original story with confirmation from a Microsoft spokesperson who confirmed that the center is shutting down.
Source: Guardian Nigeria and Bloomberg
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