In the post-Covid-19 era, the importance of the office space as a measure of an organisation’s efficiency has reduced significantly as many jobs now get done remotely. However, a great office space continues to be a good status symbol that reflects the pedigree of a company. For instance, Google, one of the biggest tech firms in the world, continues to maintain its state-of-the-art office even though many of its employees are working from home.
In Nigeria, increased internet use and creativity amongst youths have led to a booming technology industry. Just like their foreign counterparts, many Nigerian tech firms have stylish and exceptional offices that reflect their brand personas. Offices, therefore, have become more than just workspaces for employees, they are also a reflection of a firm’s brand values. Moreover, what makes an office exceptionally attractive to people is more than just aesthetics. Other factors include technologically advanced work environment, comfortable furniture, spaces for relaxation and recreation, eco-friendly spaces, and a friendly atmosphere. While there are many Nigerian tech firms with exceptionally great offices, we think these five truly stand out:
1. SystemSpecs
30 years old by 2022, SystemSpecs is one of the oldest and largest technology firms in Nigeria. It is also one of the most modest, having remained unassuming about its status as a of the Nigeria’s pioneer human capital technology and fintech providers. Untill recently, the owners of Remita operated from a simple building at Obalende, Lagos. Things changed in February 2020 when they moved to a brand new ultra-modern office complex in Victoria Island. The new SystemSpecs office is simply classy and breath-taking. From the architecture of the imposing 3-storey structure to its unique interior designs and colourful ambience, everything about the building reflects innovation and class, which the SystemSpecs brand is known for. Some of the notable features of the building include an indoor waterfall, a garden with a fountain and a colourfully decorated cafeteria. The lobby and waiting rooms on the ground floor are aesthetically appealing while there is a special wall with the historical timelines of SystemSpecs engraved, a fully equipped gym, games room, relaxation and sleep zones across all floors as well as countless greeneries.
2. Farmcrowdy
Farmcrowdy builds sustainable food solutions in Africa through technology. Through innovation and harnessed data, it creates enabling environments for key players in the food value chain to maximise output and yield untapped profits. An upscale, dynamic agricultural technology solutions firm in Nigeria, Farmcrowdy has become a success story in a short while and the company’s office reflects everything it stands for including its youthfulness, dynamism and ingenuity. Its stylish and clever interior designs combined with its comfortable and collaborative ambience make this office one of the most beautiful in Nigeria. One of the most noticeable features of the Farmcrowdy office is a huge map of Africa engraved on the wall along the staircase, showing some of the farmers impacted by the company. The carpet grass wall of its reception also gives off the feeling of eco-friendliness.
3. Interswitch
Interswitch is a renowned electronic payment and digital commerce company. One of the most successful technology companies in Africa with several iconic products, Interswitch has about 540 employees and is ranked 3rd among its top 10 competitors. It is only natural that this massive company occupies a massive office space. The Interswitch office houses all their business units including Quickteller, Verve and Vance. Besides its imposing architecture and spacious interior, the Interswitch office also features collaborative work spaces that are powered by the latest technology as well as an ambience that is not only comfortable but inspiring.
4. Paystack
Paystack is another company on the list from the new generation. Paystack helps businesses in Africa get paid by anyone, anywhere in the world through simple, easy payment solutions. Founded in 2016 by Ezra Olubi and Shola Akinlade, the company reached a major milestone in 2020 when it was acquired by Stripes for $200m. Paystack’s office is simply awe-striking, reflecting the vibrancy, innovation, and adventurous disposition of the firm. While the Paystack office looks small and simple from the outside, its interior is significantly different, with colourful, captivating spaces. One of the most noticeable features is the graffiti engraved on the white wall of the reception, saying welcome in multiple languages. The workspaces as simply unique, reflecting the unconventional nature of the brand. Then there is a bathtub with nobody bathing in it.
5. Patricia
Patricia is another new generation technology company powering the fintech boom. Patricia creates seamless platforms for people to perform cryptocurrency transactions. In just 3 years, the company has grown from 2 to 350 employees and was recently a major sponsor of the widely watched Big Brother Naija show. Patricia’s office is as dynamic and unconventional as its brand. You begin to feel the captivating ambience of this 4-storey edifice from when you enter the reception and the customer experience centre on the ground floor. Everything Patricia does is boldly engraved on the walls. including graffiti on bitcoins as well as Refill, a product for handling recurring bill payments. Other notable features including a bespoke kitchenette, game rooms, a therapeutic room and phone booths.