Facebook, the global tech behemoth, has announced plans to establish a new office in Lagos, Nigeria, solidifying its commitment to the burgeoning African tech landscape. This move, four years after CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s visit to the country, underscores Facebook’s recognition of Nigeria’s pivotal role as a hub for innovation and technological advancement.
The Lagos office, slated to become operational within the next year, will serve as a strategic center for Facebook’s operations in sub-Saharan Africa. The company is expected to recruit a diverse team of engineers, sales professionals, partnership managers, policy experts, and communications specialists to drive growth and development across the region.
Ime Archibong, Facebook’s Head of New Product Experimentation, emphasized the company’s attraction to the pool of exceptional tech talent within Nigeria. This strategic move signifies a significant investment in local talent and a commitment to fostering a thriving tech ecosystem in Africa.
Prior to this, Facebook’s African operations were primarily managed from its South African headquarters, established five years ago. This expansion into Nigeria reflects the company’s growing recognition of the region’s immense potential.
Over the past decade, internet penetration in sub-Saharan Africa has witnessed remarkable growth, increasing from 16% to 33.2%. This surge in connectivity has created a fertile ground for digital innovation and positioned Africa as a key market for global tech companies.
Facebook has been actively investing in Africa’s digital infrastructure, recognizing the continent’s immense potential. The 2Africa project, a collaborative effort with telecom companies to lay subsea internet cables connecting 16 African countries, exemplifies this commitment to improving connectivity and expanding access to the digital world.
Furthermore, Facebook has been actively involved in nurturing African talent through initiatives such as NG_Hub, a partnership with CcHub aimed at empowering young Nigerian developers.
This strategic expansion into Nigeria underscores Facebook’s long-term vision for Africa. As the company continues to explore and invest in the region, it is poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of the African tech landscape.
