Nigeria’s freight forwarding sector is undergoing a “transformative rebirth” driven by digital innovation, multimodal transport expansion, and sustainability initiatives, according to Dr. Oluwasegun Musa, Chairman/Chief Consultant of Widescope International Group and a leading Global Transport Policy expert.
Musa made this declaration during his paper presentation at the Nigeria’s Transport Infrastructure Summit 2025, held in Lagos, organised by JustAlive Communications Limited, where he delivered an insightful address titled “Modernising Freight Forwarding Infrastructure: Driving Sustainable Transport Logistics and Trade Facilitation in Nigeria”.
“The Nigerian freight forwarding industry is no longer a bystander in the global logistics chain”, Musa stated. “We are witnessing a profound modernisation driven by strategic investments in physical, digital, and operational infrastructure — a transformation that is positioning Nigeria for competitiveness and sustainability”.
Reforming a Sector Long Hampered by Inefficiency
Citing data from the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Musa who was represented by xxxxxxx Mr. Mark Onuchi, noted that logistical inefficiencies cost Nigeria an estimated $8 billion annually. He lamented that over 60% of freight still relies on road transport, describing it as “a mono-modal approach that is economically unsustainable and environmentally damaging”.
“The cost of inefficiency is simply too high”, he stressed. “Our logistics framework must evolve to reflect global best practices — integrating rail, road, air, and waterways in a seamless and sustainable manner”.
Infrastructure Revolution: From Ports to Rails
Highlighting major strides in infrastructure, Musa described the Lekki Deep Sea Port, operational since 2023, as “a game changer that is reshaping Nigeria’s maritime landscape”.
“The $1.5 billion Lekki Port, with a 2.7 million TEU capacity, is already reducing congestion at Apapa and saving shippers as much as $300 per container”, he said. “It is also the country’s first port designed for full multimodal integration — with direct rail access and supporting road networks”.
Musa also pointed to the revival of rail infrastructure, particularly the Lagos–Kano and Kano–Maradi lines, as a catalyst for lower emissions and greater efficiency. “Moving freight from road to rail can cut carbon emissions by up to 76%. That is not just progress — it is a national imperative”, he noted.
He further emphasised the growing role of inland waterways, calling it “a long-neglected transport asset now providing vital congestion relief and environmental benefits”.
Digital Transformation: The New Logistics Frontier
According to Musa, Nigeria’s freight forwarding modernisations is equally being powered by digital technologies.
“Today’s freight forwarders are leveraging automation, data analytics, and real-time tracking to improve visibility, reduce errors, and boost competitiveness”, he explained. “In fact, 61% of logistics staff in Nigeria now use digital tracking tools — a development that has greatly improved supply chain reliability”.
He added that customs processes are also becoming more transparent with automation and API integration. However, he cautioned that “without robust ICT infrastructure and improved server capacity, the full benefits of digitalisation may remain elusive”.
Pushing for a Greener Supply Chain
On environmental sustainability, Musa called for a “green logistics revolution”.
He praised the Presidential CNG Initiative, under which transport operators are switching from diesel to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), reducing emissions and operational costs.
“Sustainability is no longer optional — it’s the new currency of competitiveness”, he declared. “Companies that fail to adapt will be left behind”.
He also highlighted emerging trends in eco-friendly packaging and solar-powered warehouses, noting that global logistics firms operating in Nigeria — such as DHL are already leading the way in carbon reduction initiatives.