By: The Sun

The technical adviser to the Vice-President on transportation, logistics and innovation, Dr. Segun Obayendo, who dropped this hint while speaking virtually at the just concluded 2026 Ningbo Africa Trade & Logistics Cooperation Forum held at Zhejiang Province, China, said that efficient logistics is indispensable to achieving the country’s ambition of building a US$1 trillion economy by 2030.

According to him, transport and logistics are no longer merely support services; they are strategic economic assets. Countries that invest in efficient logistics systems become more competitive, attract greater investment, create quality jobs and unlock new opportunities for sustainable development.

Obayendo, added that the federal government is implementing policies and partnerships aimed at modernizing transport infrastructure, improving supply chain efficiency and positioning Nigeria as West Africa’s leading logistics and distribution hub.

According to Obayendo, the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu places significant emphasis on infrastructure development, trade facilitation, investment promotion and economic competitiveness, all of which depend on an efficient and integrated transport and logistics system.

“Nigeria’s aspiration to build a one-trillion-dollar economy will depend not only on what we produce but also on how efficiently we move people, goods and services. Modern transport infrastructure, resilient supply chains and efficient logistics systems are fundamental to attracting investment, expanding trade and driving sustainable economic growth,” Obayendo said.

He noted that Nigeria’s strategic location, abundant natural resources, growing consumer market and access to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) provide a strong foundation for regional economic leadership.

The technical adviser, however, stated that unlocking these opportunities requires sustained investment in multimodal transport infrastructure, modern ports, digital logistics platforms and integrated supply chain networks.

Obayendo also described China’s zero-tariff policy for exports from African countries as a significant opportunity for Nigeria to expand exports, strengthen manufacturing, attract new investments and deepen participation in global value chains.

“China’s zero-tariff initiative presents a strategic opportunity for Nigeria and the wider African continent. By strengthening our logistics capacity and improving trade facilitation, we can expand exports, attract manufacturing investments and position Nigerian businesses to compete more effectively in international markets,” he said

Obayendo also emphasized that stronger Nigeria China cooperation should extend beyond trade volumes to include technology transfer, industrial development, infrastructure investment, skills development and innovation capable of creating sustainable employment opportunities for millions of Nigerians and Africans.

The technical adviser highlighted the importance of integrated logistics corridors linking seaports, inland dry ports, rail networks, highways and warehousing facilities, noting that efficient cargo movement remains essential to reducing the cost of doing business, improving export competitiveness and strengthening regional trade under AfCFTA.

Obayendodescribed the engagement as a practical demonstration of how international collaboration can translate policy dialogue into tangible economic outcomes.

He welcomed the strategic agreements reached during the forum, including the proposed cooperation on port development and logistics infrastructure between GK&A Logistics Services Limited and China-base Ningbo Foreign Trade Co., Ltd., describing the initiative as a significant step towards improving Nigeria’s logistics capacity and strengthening bilateral economic cooperation.

“Transport and logistics are no longer merely support services; they are strategic economic assets. Countries that invest in efficient logistics systems become more competitive, attract greater investment, create quality jobs and unlock new opportunities for sustainable development. That is the direction Nigeria is pursuing through strategic partnerships such as this,” he added.

Obayendo reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting policies and partnerships that promote efficient transportation systems, logistics innovation, trade facilitation and sustainable industrial development.

Obayendo also called on governments, development partners, financial institutions and the private sector to sustain collaboration in implementing the agreements reached at the forum to maximise their long-term economic benefits.