As Nigeria pursues economic diversification and industrial growth, experts say an efficient supply chain system remains one of the strongest pillars for sustainable development. In this exclusive interview with NIYI JACOBS, supply chain expert and business consultant, Mr. Ayokunle James Adeyemi, shares practical insights on procurement, logistics, digital transformation, infrastructure, leadership and the policy reforms needed to position Nigeria as West Africa’s leading logistics hub.
Q: Nigeria is striving to diversify its economy. How critical is supply chain management to achieving sustainable economic growth and industrial development?
A: Supply chain management is at the heart of economic diversification. As Nigeria seeks to reduce its dependence on crude oil, sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, mining and technology require efficient supply chains to support production, distribution and market access.
A well-managed supply chain reduces costs, improves productivity and ensures products reach consumers on time. Despite challenges such as poor infrastructure, high logistics costs, inadequate storage facilities and port congestion, businesses can improve performance through strategic sourcing, inventory management, technology adoption and better planning.
Government must also continue investing in infrastructure, digital technologies and human capital to strengthen supply chain performance and support Nigeria’s long-term industrial transformation.
Q: The logistics and supply chain industry has evolved significantly over the past decade. What trends will shape the sector over the next five to ten years?
A: Digital transformation, infrastructure development and sustainability will define the future of the industry. The rapid growth of e-commerce has increased demand for faster last-mile delivery, while projects such as the Lekki Deep Sea Port and the Dangote Refinery are expected to improve cargo movement and reduce logistics costs.
Businesses must also embrace automation, data analytics and resilient supply chain strategies. Those that invest in technology and skilled professionals will be better positioned to compete both locally and internationally.
Q: From your experience, what are the biggest mistakes Nigerian SMEs make in procurement and supply chain management?
A: One of the biggest mistakes is focusing solely on the cheapest products. Cheap purchases often result in poor quality, delayed deliveries and higher maintenance costs. Businesses should prioritise value rather than price alone.
Another common mistake is relying on a single supplier. The COVID-19 pandemic and recent foreign exchange challenges exposed the risks of supplier dependence. Companies should maintain multiple reliable suppliers to minimise disruptions.
Many SMEs also fail to keep proper procurement records. Digital tools, proper documentation and advance planning can significantly improve efficiency and profitability. Good procurement is not about spending less; it is about buying wisely and managing risks effectively.
Q: With rising inflation, exchange rate volatility and increasing transportation costs, how can businesses remain profitable without compromising service delivery?
A: Businesses must become more efficient. They should carefully monitor costs, eliminate unnecessary expenses and focus on activities that create value for customers.
Building strong relationships with dependable suppliers, renegotiating contracts and increasing local sourcing can help reduce foreign exchange exposure. Companies should also embrace technology to improve inventory management, reduce waste and make better business decisions.
Profitability in today’s economy will depend more on innovation, efficiency and strategic planning than simply increasing prices.
Q: You have built a career across banking, procurement, consulting and logistics. Which experiences have influenced your leadership philosophy the most?
A: Every stage of my career has contributed to my leadership philosophy. Banking taught me financial discipline, risk management and accountability. Procurement strengthened my understanding of negotiation, transparency and supplier relationship management, while consulting exposed me to strategic thinking and organisational development.
My experience in logistics reinforced the importance of resilience, innovation and operational efficiency. Together, these experiences have shaped my commitment to making informed decisions, building strong teams and delivering lasting value to clients and stakeholders.
Q: As an entrepreneur, what lessons have you learned from building Solaire Logistics and Supply Chain Limited?
A: Building the company required resilience. One of our biggest challenges was earning clients’ trust in a competitive market. We achieved this through consistency, professionalism and quality service delivery.
Managing inflation, exchange rate fluctuations and rising operational costs also taught us the importance of sound financial planning and cost control. Above all, I have learned that business success depends on integrity, adaptability and investing in people who share your organisation’s vision.
Q: Artificial Intelligence, blockchain and predictive analytics are transforming global supply chains. How should Nigerian companies position themselves?
A: Nigerian businesses should embrace digital transformation gradually but intentionally. Predictive analytics can improve demand forecasting, AI can optimise logistics operations, while blockchain enhances transparency and traceability across supply chains.
SMEs do not need to adopt sophisticated technologies immediately. They can begin with digital inventory systems, customer management software and data analysis tools before progressing to more advanced solutions. Technology combined with skilled professionals will define the future of supply chain management.
Q: What policy reforms would you recommend to improve Nigeria’s competitiveness and ease of doing business?
A: Nigeria must continue investing in roads, railways, seaports and logistics hubs. My experience travelling by rail from Ibadan to Lagos demonstrated the enormous potential of modern rail transport. Expanding the rail network to more commercial cities would significantly reduce logistics costs and improve trade.
Government should also modernise port operations through automation, reduce customs delays and maintain stable policies on taxation, foreign exchange and trade. These reforms will attract investment, improve efficiency and strengthen Nigeria’s competitiveness.
Q: What role should universities and professional bodies play in developing the next generation of supply chain professionals?
A: Universities should introduce specialised supply chain management programmes and strengthen collaboration with industry through internships, research and practical training. Many institutions still do not treat supply chain management as a standalone discipline despite its strategic importance.
Professional bodies also have a responsibility to provide certification, mentoring and continuous professional development. Strong collaboration between academia, industry and professional organisations is essential to developing world-class supply chain professionals.
Q: If you had the opportunity to advise the Federal Government on transforming Nigeria into a regional logistics hub, what would be your top recommendations?
A: My priorities would be infrastructure development, policy stability and human capital development.
Nigeria needs an integrated transport system linking roads, rail, ports and airports. Government should improve port efficiency through technology and faster cargo clearance while investing in digital transformation and the training of supply chain professionals.
Nigeria has all the potential to become the logistics gateway to West Africa. With the right infrastructure, business-friendly policies and skilled workforce, the country can reduce costs, attract investment, create jobs and drive sustainable economic growth
