Quick Catch Up
- Abideen Yusuf appointed as new GM for Nigeria and Ghana
- Olatomiwa Williams promoted to Chief Growth & AI Officer, MEA Growth Markets
- Microsoft strengthens focus on AI and local innovation in Africa
Microsoft has announced a leadership reshuffle in West Africa, appointing Abideen Yusuf as General Manager for Nigeria and Ghana.
This comes as Olatomiwa Williams takes on a new regional role as Chief Growth and Artificial Intelligence Officer for Microsoft’s Middle East and Africa Growth Markets.
Why it matters
The reshuffle signals Microsoft’s renewed focus on accelerating AI adoption and digital growth across the continent. Nigeria and Ghana remain central to Microsoft’s Africa strategy.
Zoom in:
- Williams, who joined Microsoft in 2010 and became Nigeria Country Manager in 2021, has been instrumental in expanding the company’s West Africa footprint.
- In her new role, she will oversee AI and growth initiatives across emerging markets in the MEA region.
- Yusuf, previously Director of Enterprise Business for Microsoft, now takes over operations in a newly created Multi Country Cluster (MCC), designed to deepen Microsoft’s impact locally.
What they’re saying:
“Leading this team has been a unique experience… shaped by innovation, resilience, and a collective commitment to empowering every person and organisation,” — Olatomiwa Williams
“Together, we will continue to shape a future defined by collaboration, resilience, and shared success.” — Abideen Yusuf
Between the lines
This leadership transition is part of a broader reorganisation within Microsoft’s MEA operations:
- Mirna Arif, former GM for Egypt, now leads the MEA Growth Markets.
- Lillian Barnard, ex-Microsoft Africa head, becomes Lead for Enterprise Partner Solutions in MEA.
Source: Techeconomy
