Edun to Microsoft: We’ll create conducive environment to boost investments

Wale Edun, minister of finance and coordinating minister of the economy, says the federal government is committed to creating a conducive business environment in Nigeria.

According to a statement by Mohammed Manga, the ministry’s director, information and public relations, Edun gave the assurance when he received a delegation from Microsoft Nigeria, led by Olatomiwa Williams, its country manager.

He said the business-friendly environment will encourage multinational companies to expand their investments in the country with a view to contributing to the nation’s economic growth and development.

The minister emphasised the administration’s understanding of the strategic importance of sector leaders like Microsoft.

The meeting, he said, marks a significant step forward in building a collaborative relationship between the federal government and multinational technology companies — driving economic development and innovation in Nigeria.

Also speaking, Williams said the Microsoft team was on a visit to address recent media reports.

He said the multinational firm also intended to explore potential areas of partnerships between the federal government and the technology giant.

Contrary to speculations, the managing director said Microsoft remains committed to its operations in Nigeria.

He expressed the company’s desire to partner with the government in areas of mutual interest, such as cyber security and youth upskilling.

On May 8, it was reported that Microsoft sacked its workers at the Africa Development Centre (ADC), located in Lagos.

However, Temitope Ajayi, senior special assistant to President Bola Tinubu on media and publicity, denied reports that Microsoft would shut down its operations in Nigeria.