Experts have called the Federal Government to focus on Nigeria’s often overlooked logistics, courier, and transport sector, valued at over N3tn, as highlighted by experts.
They made this appeal at the Courier and Logistics Management Institute conference and investiture which was held in Lagos, with the theme, “Logistics Solutions and National Infrastructure Development.”
Prof. Simon Emeje, the CLMI Executive Chairman, stressed that the courier, logistics, and transport management field had not received the necessary attention from the Nigerian government, despite its significant untapped potential on a global scale.
He said, “Any country that does not pay attention to logistics, courier and transport sector cannot survive. The government must not ignore this sector because it is the bedrock of any economy.”
“The logistics, courier, transport, and management industry hold an average asset value of over N3tn, presenting substantial potential for job creation.”
Emeje highlighted the crippling effect on commerce in the absence of logistics. He pointed out, “Imagine a manufacturer producing goods but lacking the logistics to distribute or deliver them to the end users.”
He underscored the multifaceted contributions of logistics, ranging from easing trade and improving the supply chain to generating employment opportunities and driving economic growth.
Despite its undeniable significance, the Nigerian logistics sector encounters obstacles such as infrastructural deficits and weak government policies, hindering its full potential.
Emeje’s urgent call for attention echoes the sector’s vital role in sustaining and promoting economic prosperity.
“Consequently, the key takeaway here is that the government should prioritize this industry due to its capability to create millions of employment opportunities for our youths,” he emphasized.
Former Minister of Communications, Barr. Adebayo Shittu, urged the institute to develop a comprehensive proposal for government adoption and offered support in facilitating engagement.
Underlining the sector’s importance, he, along with Prof. Emeje, appealed to the Federal Government to establish a dedicated ministry to foster an enabling environment for Courier and Logistics Management, drawing parallels to the recognition given to the entertainment industry.
