By Ayo Akinuli

President Bola Tinubu faces a critical challenge as Nigeria’s postal services are outdated, inefficient, and plagued by corruption. Citizens endure delays, lost parcels, and exorbitant fees, eroding trust in this essential public service.

A robust postal system is vital for modern economies, driving logistics, facilitating e-commerce, and enhancing national connectivity. Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy and a key regional player, cannot afford such weak infrastructure.

Examining successful models, Germany’s Deutsche Post DHL reported revenues of €94.4 billion in 2020, significantly contributing to the nation’s economy. Similarly, Japan Post Holdings achieved revenues of ¥11.9 trillion (approximately $113 billion) in 2020, underscoring the economic benefits of efficient postal systems.

In Africa, South Africa’s postal services market is projected to generate around $174.10 million in 2024. Ghana’s postal system, recognized as the best in Africa by the Universal Postal Union in 2021, has supported economic growth and strengthened e-commerce capabilities.

Beyond economic growth, revitalizing Nigeria’s postal services could create thousands of jobs. For instance, South Africa’s postal services employ over 16,000 people, while Germany’s Deutsche Post DHL provides jobs to more than 500,000 workers globally. If operations are modernized and expanded, Nigeria could generate employment opportunities in logistics, IT, customer service, and management, reducing unemployment and empowering local communities.

If the government wants Nigerian youth to stop seeking opportunities abroad, it must provide compelling reasons for them to stay. A revitalized postal system could be one such reason—offering jobs and an infrastructure that supports entrepreneurship, innovation, and e-commerce. The government can help curb the brain drain and create a more prosperous nation by fostering an environment where young Nigerians see real opportunities for growth and success.

Reforming Nigeria’s postal sector could unlock substantial economic potential. Reliable services would boost small businesses, attract foreign investment in logistics, and enable seamless e-commerce operations. Improved delivery networks would support financial inclusion and connect rural communities to urban markets.

President Tinubu must prioritize this overhaul—modernizing operations, ensuring transparency, and leveragingtechnology. A strong postal system would empower Nigerians, create jobs, and position the country as a regional hub for trade and commerce. It’s time for decisive action to harness this untapped potential.

Reference

• Deutsche Post DHL Group. (2021). Annual report 2020. 

• Japan Post Holdings Co., Ltd. (2021). Annual report 2020. 

• Statista. (2024). South Africa – postal services market revenue forecast 2024. 

• Universal Postal Union. (2021). Postal Development Report 2021: Integrated Index for Postal Development (2IPD). 

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