Peter Obi reacts as Microsoft sacks 200 workers, shuts innovation centre

Admin I Wednesday, May 08, 2024

 

LAGOS, Nigeria – Former Presidential candidate of Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi has reacted to the decision of Microsoft to shut its innovation centre in Lagos and sack 200 employees.

In a statement, Obi described the announcement as deeply troubling and that it underscores the urgent need for comprehensive economic reforms in Nigeria.

“This further highlights the challenges and broader issues plaguing the Nigerian economy. The closure of Microsoft’s innovation center represents yet another significant setback for Nigeria’s aspirations to become a hub for technology and innovation in Africa.

“It also raises serious concerns about our business environment for investors. And this has become a stark reminder of the obstacles faced by both local and international businesses operating in Nigeria, including regulatory hurdles, and an uncertain business environment”, he said. 

According to him, the loss of 200 direct jobs, and several other indirect jobs, is not just numbers and statistics but represents the livelihoods and aspirations of individuals and families who now face uncertainty and financial hardship.

“It is a blow to the efforts to create employment opportunities and drive economic growth in Nigeria, particularly in the critical technology sector, which holds immense potential for innovation and job creation.

“We must take decisive actions to address the root causes of this decline in investor confidence and create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.

“We must prioritise policies that promote innovation, entrepreneurship, and job creation, while also ensuring transparency, accountability, and good governance.

“Additionally, we must invest in education and skills development to equip our workforce with the necessary tools and knowledge that will unlock the full potential of our nation and position us to compete in the global economy. A New Nigeria is indeed POssible!”, Peter Obi said.