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By Chukwuma Umeorah
With Courier and Logistics sector contributing 3.5 per cent to Nigeria’s GDP and exceeding N3 trillion in assets, stakeholders and experts in the sector have urged the Federal Government to leverage opportunities in the sector for economic growth and national development.
The Institute has also called for the creation of a new government ministry that dedicated to logistics, courier services, transportation and management.
The Chairman, Courier and Logistics Management Institute (CLMI), Simon Emeje while speaking at the third edition of the CLMI International Conference and Investiture 2023 in Lagos on Thursday, expressed concerns about Nigeria’s ranking in ease of doing business and logistics performance index globally as he emphasised that a thriving logistics sector formed the foundation for the development of other sectors. This is even as he noted that the Institute had developed several templates that would address some of the challenges of the country.
“As I speak to you, we have templates for adequate development that would address the cry of the citizenry. This template has been used to help other countries, why can’t we replicate it in Nigeria. It amazes me that despite being blessed with so much resources, our people still suffer.” This is even as he called for government to collaborate with the institute to profer effective solutions.
The conference themed “Logistics Solutions and National Infrastructure Development” hosted industry leaders and professionals who shared valuable insights on development of the industry.
Another key aspect highlighted was the urgent need for clear and supportive regulations within the logistics sector. Emeje argued that well-defined regulations would not only ensure fair competition but also enhance the overall efficiency and reliability of logistics and courier services in the country.
“Regulation controls activities in every sector of the economy and it is very vital for government to create regulations and policies that would ensure a level ground for players in the sector.”
In addition to regulations, the conference emphasized the importance of education in shaping a skilled workforce for the logistics industry. Attendees urged the government to integrate logistics-related courses into the curriculum of institutions. This initiative aims to equip future professionals with the necessary knowledge and skills to contribute effectively to the sector.
Emeje stressed the significance of the courier, logistics, transport, and management noting that these areas were not only essential for physical movement but also crucial for time-sensitive activities that is crucial to economic growth and as an avenue to generate additional wealth for government.
He added that the sector which currently provided a large pool of employment could significantly improve in terms of job creation and contribution to economic growth.
Former Minister of Communications, Shittu Adebayo delivering a keynote address at the occasion, acknowledged the sector as a key economic player called for a collaborative effort between government and logistics professionals to harness the industry’s vast opportunities.
Echoing the request for a dedicated Ministry, he said “The government has done it for Ministry like Art and Culture and Entertainment. This specialised logistics ministry if created would facilitate targeted policies, regulations and investments needed to propel the industry forward.”
Founder, Red Star Express and Chairman, GMC Logistics Ltd, Sonny Allison, who delivered a lecture on ‘Politics of Infrastructure and Development’, emphasized the need for government to improve existing infrastructures including roads, integrated port systems, digital and communications structures as these were crucial to effective delivery of logistical services.
The event also featured a book presentation, “Logistics Solutions for Enterprise Infrastructure” by Simon Emeje, recognition of new inductees of the Institute and presentation of awards to deserving corporates and individuals of the Institute.
