Global technology giant, International Business Machines (IBM), has officially exited Nigeria, along with Ghana and several other African countries, in a strategic shift that will see its operations transferred to a third-party company.
Under this arrangement, IBM’s regional functions will now be handled by MIBB, a subsidiary of Midis Group, a multinational IT and telecommunications conglomerate operating across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
MIBB will take over the marketing and sale of IBM products and services in 36 African countries, ensuring continued access to IBM’s technology and support.
The decision marks the end of IBM’s direct presence in Nigeria after more than five decades.
The company played a significant role in shaping the country’s tech ecosystem, contributing to digital education, infrastructure development, and key industries such as banking, telecommunications, oil and gas, and governance.
IBM joins a growing list of multinational companies scaling back or exiting Nigeria’s economic landscape.
In 2024, Guinness shut down its operations in the country, while tech giants like Meta and Microsoft downsized their office spaces, opting for a more flexible work model.
IBM’s legacy in Nigeria dates back to the 1960s, notably with its involvement in establishing an educational center at the University of Ibadan to promote digital literacy.
While its direct presence may be ending, the company’s influence on the Nigerian technology space remains significant.
