Adesanya: Pioneering Product Management in Nigeria
Adeyinka Adesanya is one of the most promising female product managers in Nigeria, making significant strides in the country’s dynamic tech industry. Known for her attention to detail and strategic thinking, Adesanya excels in solving user-centric challenges while building streamlined processes. Her ability to harmonize market feedback, stakeholder inputs, and cross-functional collaboration has allowed her to craft effective product roadmaps that drive results.
Despite being relatively new to the field, her innovative approach and adaptability have placed her at the forefront of Nigeria’s evolving product management landscape. In a recent interview, she shared her journey, insights into the industry, and what it takes to thrive as a product manager in Nigeria’s burgeoning tech ecosystem.
How Did You Begin Your Journey in Product Management?
“My entry into product management was unplanned. After earning a degree in Mass Communication, I found myself drawn to the tech industry. My first role was as a Customer Service Representative at iTap Solutions Limited.
While assisting customers with troubleshooting issues, I noticed recurring frustrations with our Deluxe application. Many users found it confusing and difficult to navigate. Recognizing this gap, I proposed creating a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to simplify the application’s functionalities for users.
To back my proposal, I presented specific user feedback highlighting common pain points. The team welcomed the idea, and we collaborated to develop and implement the SOP. The results were clear: fewer support queries and improved user satisfaction.
This experience taught me the importance of listening to user feedback and turning insights into actionable solutions. Although transitioning from a communication background to the tech industry came with challenges, it has been a rewarding journey filled with learning and growth. Today, I apply these lessons in product management to bridge the gap between user needs and business objectives.”
The Role of Product Managers in Modern Businesses
Adesanya emphasized that product managers play a vital role in modern businesses by ensuring that products align with market needs and company goals. Acting as a bridge between stakeholders, development teams, and customers, product managers oversee the entire product lifecycle—from ideation to post-launch optimization.
“In the tech sector, for instance, product managers are pivotal in creating innovative solutions that meet user demands while staying ahead of competitors. Their strategic oversight and focus on user experience are key to driving product success,” she explained.
The Evolution of Product Management in Nigeria
“Nigeria’s product management landscape is rapidly evolving, fueled by the rise of startups and a vibrant tech ecosystem,” Adesanya noted. However, challenges such as limited funding, regulatory issues, and a lack of experienced mentors persist. Despite these hurdles, Nigerian product managers are making significant strides, gaining international recognition, and building a strong sense of community through professional networks and forums.
What Companies Should Look for in Product Managers
When hiring product managers, Adesanya advises companies to prioritize candidates with a well-rounded skill set.
- Technical Understanding: While not necessarily programmers, product managers should have a firm grasp of technical concepts to collaborate effectively with engineering teams.
- Strategic Vision: The ability to align product goals with business objectives is crucial for long-term growth.
- User-Centric Approach: Understanding customer needs and behaviors helps ensure products resonate with the target audience.
- Leadership Skills: Product managers must inspire and guide diverse teams toward common goals.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: Analytical skills are essential for optimizing product strategies based on market trends and performance metrics.
- Adaptability: In a rapidly changing tech environment, resilience and flexibility are indispensable.
- Communication Skills: Clear articulation of ideas to stakeholders is vital for building consensus and facilitating collaboration.
“By hiring product managers with these qualities, companies can stay competitive and deliver innovative solutions that meet market demands,” she concluded.
