Our tech ecosystem has evolved at an unprecedented pace, fueled by advancements in mobile technology, internet penetration, and a rapid growth of startup culture. Being Africa’s largest economy and most populous country, the tech space has transformed from a developing sector to a vibrant and influential player on the global stage. Product design, a critical element is shaping how Nigerians interact with technology, bridging the gap between innovation and user experience. While product designers have made significant impact in creating solutions that address local needs, they contribute to face unique challenges.

There is a gap to fill when it comes to diversity and inclusion. Nigeria has over 250 languages but the main languages are Igbo, Yoruba and Hausa. Other languages need to be translated during the design process, regardless of English being the first language. This will ensure technology will be inclusive for all Nigerians.

The Evolution of Nigeria’s Tech Space

The tech industry has witnessed tremendous growth over the past decade. The mobile
revolution, powered by the proliferation of affordable smartphones and improved internet access, has created fertile ground for digital products to thrive. The rise of sectors like fintech, edtech, healthtech, and agritech has highlighted the importance of tailored product designs that meet the specific needs of Nigerian users.
With a population of 170 million mobile subscribers, with mobile internet penetration at approximately 50 per cent of the population, creating a mobile-first design becomes a necessity. This can push designers to prioritise mobile user experiences over desktop platforms, which desktop devices are not easily accessible by all.

The fintech sector has experienced explosive growth, with startups like Flutterwave, Paystack, and Interswitch driving financial inclusion. As of 2021, Nigeria has over 100 fintech
companies, attracting 25 per cent of all African fintech funding.

As the largest share of tech startups in Africa, and investment in the Nigerian tech space exceeded $1.2 billion. The tech ecosystem in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and other emerging hubs is maturing rapidly, necessitating a focus on world-class product design to stay
competitive.

With user-centered design more critical than ever, the need for a seamless, intuitive experience from tech products should be top of the agenda. Making a product aesthetic pleasing is of exponential benefit but accessibility features and removing all bias should be
factored, which has been a huge challenge.

The Critical Need for Diversity and Inclusion in Nigerian Product Design

As Nigeria’s tech industry continues to evolve, the need for diversity and inclusion in product design has never been more pressing. Nigeria’s demographic is incredibly diverse, and tech
products must be designed to cater to users from all walks of life. A one-size-fits-all approach won’t work in a country as multifaceted as Nigeria, and this is where diversity in design becomes crucial.

A product designed for the urban, educated, and tech-savvy user won’t necessarily resonate with rural populations, older adults, or people with disabilities. Inclusive design principles ensure
that products can serve a diverse population. Product Designers need to consider users with disabilities, incorporating features such as screen readers, voice commands, or alternative input methods for people with motor impairments.

As some who experience first hand the need for inclusivity, Nigeria still has a long way to go in welcoming various people for diverse groups and making them key players in the industry. Their disability doesn’t negate their thinking capacity. A level playing field should be given to all in the inclusivity umbrella. Diversity within design teams plays a pivotal role in creating more inclusive products. Teams that reflect the diversity of their users are better equipped to identify and address pain points that may otherwise be overlooked. By including people of different genders, ethnicities, and social backgrounds in the design process, companies can create more well-rounded solutions that resonate with a broader user base.

Overcoming the Challenges: The Path Forward

The Nigerian tech space has the potential to be a leader in creating innovative, inclusive products, but this will require strategic efforts to overcome the existing challenges and promote diversity. Tech companies and regulatory bodies must prioritise inclusivity by developing and enforcing design standards that ensure products are accessible, culturally adaptable, and secure. Collaboration between the public and private sectors, educational institutions, and community organisations will foster an inclusive tech ecosystem where diverse voices can thrive.

As Nigeria’s tech space continues to evolve, product design will remain a driving force behind its growth. However, to fully realise its potential, the industry must address the challenges faced by designers and embrace diversity and inclusion as core design principles. By fostering a more inclusive environment, the Nigerian tech industry can create products that not only work for a few but serve the needs of the entire population—ensuring that technology becomes a true tool for empowerment and economic progress across the country.

Fiafia Micah Daniel Fuayefika is a
Creative/Product Designer