Ajayi said the affected staff are less than 30.
“The story that Microsoft is shutting down Nigeria office is
not true,” the presidential aide said.
“Africa Development Centre is just a department within
Microsoft business in Nigeria.
“Contrary to
incorrect media reports and @PeterObi’s naked dance, the Africa Development
Centre is also not shutting down.
“Microsoft, like any other organisation, is only re-aligning
roles within the business, and few roles will certainly be impacted.”
According to the presidential aide, the affected staff will
be asked to apply for new roles within Microsoft.
He said this is “a standard practice within the
organisation”.
Ajayi added that those who cannot find new roles in other
departments or those who want to seek new opportunities outside the system will
be asked to go.
Describing Peter Obi’s comment as sensational, Ajayi said
the situation at Microsoft is not anywhere near the impression of the
‘earthquake’.
On May 8, Peter Obi said the announcement of Microsoft
shutting down its innovation centre and cutting 200 jobs is deeply troubling.
Obi said it represents another significant setback for
Nigeria’s aspirations to become a hub for technology and innovation in Africa.
