Workstations, MSI open Lagos experience centre

Workstations, a Nigerian firm specialising in custom-built high-performance computers, has launched its first experience centre in Lagos in partnership with global hardware company Micro-Star International.

The collaboration marks MSI’s first official entry into Nigeria, with Workstations serving as its exclusive distributor and service partner.

The Experience Centre allows professionals and enthusiasts to test PCs, GPUs, motherboards and other high-end components before purchase, alongside peripherals such as keyboards, mice and headsets. The initiative addresses a longstanding challenge in Nigeria, where high-performance computers previously had to be imported, often arriving damaged or delayed. For the first time, local warranty support for MSI products will now be available.

Chief Executive Officer of Workstations, Emmanuel Osho, said the company identified a critical gap in the Nigerian market for high-performance custom computers.

“Before now, Nigerians who wanted high-end PCs had to order from abroad, often through Amazon or other online stores, and risked damage during shipping,” he told The PUNCH at the launch over the weekend.

With the company’s expertise in computer repair and assembly, Osho said Workstations realised it could provide the same services locally.

“At the centre, customers can test computers, access high-end accessories, and make informed decisions. Partnering with MSI allows us to provide local warranty services, so products no longer need to be sent abroad for repairs,” he added.

The company is targeting professionals who require powerful machines, including content creators, engineers, architects, AI specialists, and gamers. Osho noted that demand for custom-built PCs in Nigeria is strong, with daily requests from professionals who now consider such systems an essential investment rather than a luxury.

Founded in 2022, Workstations spent years building a team and refining its systems to meet global standards. Each PC is assembled to order, with components such as CPUs, GPUs and power supplies selected according to the client’s use case. Build times usually range from three to seven working days, though expedited options are available for urgent orders.

Regional Director at MSI, Bryan Chen, said the company’s decision to enter Nigeria was driven by the growing demand for high-performance computing.

“When we met Emmanuel last year, we recognised him as a leading professional in workstation building and customisation in Nigeria. That led us to establish this partnership,” he said, adding, “At this Experience Centre, we are showcasing components, gaming monitors and more. MSI has become one of the fastest-growing gaming monitor brands globally despite only entering the market five years ago. We see great potential in Nigeria and believe this partnership will help introduce our brand to a wider audience.”

Chen noted that MSI’s products serve not only gamers and creators but also commercial and home users, with entry-level solutions including monitors and desktops.

On gaming, he said many people misunderstand what constitutes a proper gaming PC.

“Some assume that simply adding a VGA card to a regular PC makes it a gaming system. True gaming PCs require high-quality components, strong thermal solutions and robust motherboards,” he explained.