HumanManager Limited (HML), a Nigerian HR and payroll technology firm, has called for a more strategic and data-informed approach to human capital management, arguing that workplace culture must be intentionally shaped through technology and insight. The company made the call during its participation at the 2025 ICTEL Expo, held in Lagos from July 29 to 30 and organised by the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI).
Speaking during a media interaction at the expo, the Managing Director of HumanManager, Mr. Udy Ngele, said that while technological innovation continues to redefine business operations, many organisations are still struggling with a persistent challenge—creating and sustaining high-performance cultures.
“Technology will continue to evolve, but the demand for emotionally intelligent, committed professionals remains constant,” Ngele said. “Organisations must use data to understand and respond to workforce needs, build strong internal cultures, and reward excellence.”
HumanManager used the expo to showcase its suite of HR and payroll solutions, engaging with business leaders and stakeholders on how organisations can leverage automation and analytics to streamline operations and foster employee engagement. The company’s offerings focus on key HR functions such as onboarding, payroll processing, performance tracking, and benefits administration—areas Mr. Ngele said can transform workplace experience when supported by actionable insights.
“Data must become the basis for decisions about promotions, engagement, and conflict resolution,” he said. “A transparent and human-centred workplace is essential for long-term growth.”
Mr. Ngele warned against complacency in the face of toxic work cultures, noting that dysfunction can persist when leadership fails to act. “Sustainable workplace culture is not built by chance—it is shaped by deliberate choices,” he added. “Organisations must proactively address dysfunction, empower their people, and use both technology and empathy to foster environments where individuals and teams can thrive.”
Beyond digital tools, HumanManager also offers advisory support for companies navigating organisational change. Ngele noted that the company works with startups and established enterprises alike, helping them align workforce strategies with business outcomes. “We help organisations build inclusive, high-trust workplaces by providing tools that offer real insight into employee experience and workforce dynamics,” he said.
Reflecting on the significance of the ICTEL platform, Ngele praised the LCCI for fostering dialogue between the tech and business communities. “ICTEL 2025 has not only showcased innovation but also highlighted how much Nigeria’s tech space has matured. It’s a privilege to be part of this journey,” he said.
He also shared personal reflections on his own professional journey, describing how his transition from accounting to technology once faced hurdles due to the scarcity of local digital tools and training. “When I joined HumanManager, the landscape was narrow. Today, more young professionals are making smoother transitions into tech, and that’s a sign of real progress.”
Now in its 11th year, the ICTEL Expo has grown into a major continental forum for digital and economic transformation. The 2025 edition, themed “Leveraging Technology Innovation and Development in Africa,” featured policy leaders, innovators, and tech executives from across the region. Among the prominent speakers were Mr. Tubosun Alake, Lagos State Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology; Mrs. Tola Odeyemi, Postmaster General of NIPOST; Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC); and Bisoye Coker-Odusote, Director-General of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC).
Looking ahead, HumanManager says it remains committed to developing smarter, locally adaptable HR technologies that support organisations as they scale. “Our mission is to help shape the future of work in Africa,” Ngele said. “By enabling companies to harness data and technology for inclusive growth, agile performance, and long-term success, we’re not just automating processes—we’re empowering people.”
