Nigeria’s transport and logistics experts have stated that integrating modern multimodal transport systems and last-mile delivery solutions is crucial to fixing the country’s struggling supply chain industry.
From delayed emergency responses to rising food prices caused by post-harvest losses, experts warned that high distribution costs, weak infrastructure, and fragmented logistics systems continue to disrupt the movement of goods, thereby slowing Nigeria’s economic growth.
Speaking at the BusinessDay Mobility & Logistics Conference 2025, themed ‘The Business Of Logistics: Advancing Infrastructure, Connectivity And Last-Mile Solutions In Nigeria,’ Obiora Madu, director general, Africa Centre for Supply Chain (ACSC), in his keynote address, highlighted the weaknesses crippling Nigeria’s logistics sector
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In his keynote paper, titled, ‘Reimagining Logistics as a Growth Engine: Building the Infrastructure and Networks that Move Nigeria Forward,’ Madu, represented by Stephen Adeloro, national coordinator of ACSC, pointed to frequent stock-outs of essential goods, slow emergency response, fragmented delivery systems, congested seaports, poorly utilised dry ports, unreliable electricity, and limited access to rural communities as key issues that continue to undermine efficiency across the supply chain.
He added that logistics operations within Nigeria make up 20 percent to 30 percent of the total costs of an item, which is above the international standard of 8 percent to 11 percent.
“Distribution costs in Nigeria reach 20 percent–30 percent, far above the global benchmark of 8 percent–11 percent, driving up food prices and undermining competitiveness.
“Rural connectivity remains weak, with only about 60 percent of communities having basic road access. Weak multimodal integration, poor road–rail links, and network issues also limit drone operations and modern logistics solutions,” Madu said.
He further stressed the need for a clearly defined multimodal transport strategy supported by stronger digital connectivity, better policy alignment, and deeper public–private partnerships, noting that these elements are crucial to building an efficient and integrated national supply chain.
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He recommended scenario mapping for disaster response, data-sharing between logistics providers and government, and a shift from siloed supply chain departments to integrated operations.
“We need policy regulation, scenario mapping, data sharing and monitoring, scalable and affordable last-mile delivery solutions, EV-based and home-based deliveries, and digital connectivity.
“For example, will the police stop your bike on the road because it’s not approved? But if it’s there’s a policy, we can move freely and make life very easy,” Madu said.
