Recognizing the need for enhanced logistics infrastructure and digital integration to support e-commerce growth in Nigeria, Glovo, in partnership with the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy through the Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST), convened a stakeholder forum to address the sector’s challenges.
The event brought together policymakers, technology leaders and private sector players to explore strategies for bridging Nigeria’s logistics gaps and accelerating the integration of digital and physical infrastructure to enhance e-commerce operations.
Postmaster General of NIPOST, Tola Odeyemi, emphasised the critical role of logistics and nationwide accessibility in developing a thriving digital economy.
She mentioned NIPOST’s expansive physical network as a potential backbone for last-mile delivery solutions, particularly for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
“By aligning our vast network with digital platforms, we can create an efficient logistics framework that benefits businesses, especially SMEs, and ensures that e-commerce reaches every corner of Nigeria,” she stated.
Glovo’s Vision for E-commerce Growth
William Benthall, Global Director of Government Relations at Glovo, presented the company’s Yellow Effect Report, which provides insights into Africa’s digital commerce landscape and Glovo’s impact over the past five years, with a strong focus on Nigeria.
The report outlined how innovative logistics solutions and digital integration have empowered local businesses, driven economic growth and enhanced supply chain efficiency.
Benthall noted that strategic partnerships and leveraging technology are essential for sustainable growth in Nigeria’s e-commerce ecosystem.
Speaking on Glovo’s impact, he stated “In the last five years, we have supported 45,000 businesses, 95 per cent of them SMEs, generated over €1 billion for partners and aided 4,000 at-risk businesses. We are also driving financial inclusion.”
Benthall explained that collaboration with policymakers, industry leaders and local businesses will strengthen the digital economy, improve logistics efficiency and foster a more resilient and inclusive marketplace.
Optimizing Logistics Through AI
During a fireside chat themed ‘Empowering Local Economies Through Strategic Partnerships in E-commerce’, Lamide Akinola, General Manager of Glovo Nigeria, discussed how artificial intelligence (AI) is being deployed to optimize e-commerce operations.
According to her, AI is playing a crucial role in streamlining delivery logistics, predicting demand patterns and enhancing user experience.
She also introduced Glovo Local, an initiative designed to equip SMEs with digital tools, training and financial resources to thrive in a technology-driven economy.
With Nigeria’s e-commerce market rapidly expanding, experts at the forum stressed that improved logistics, digital integration and last-mile delivery solutions are vital for unlocking the sector’s full potential.
As Glovo and NIPOST deepen collaboration, the initiative is expected to enhance logistics efficiency, improve e-commerce penetration and create new opportunities for businesses across Nigeria.
The partnership signals a step forward in ensuring that logistics infrastructure keeps pace with the country’s evolving digital economy.
