By Ayobami Okerinde

As online shopping increased during and after the pandemic, the maritime sector is forced to adapt quickly, leading to major changes in supply chain management.

Recent COVID-19 pandemic significantly reshaped global trade by accelerating digital transformation across various industries. One of the most profound shifts that occurred in maritime logistics surge, is e-commerce. It now, created unprecedented demand for efficiency, automation and resilience.

Rising Demand for Digitalisation in Maritime Trade

According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), global e-commerce expanded rapidly in 2020, with online retail sales rising by 26.7%. This surge drove increased demand for container shipping, port efficiency, and last-mile delivery improvements.

Similarly, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) also urged ports and shipping companies to adopt automation, blockchain, and smart logistics to handle growing cargo volumes efficiently.

The World Trade Organization (WTO) highlighted the importance of technology in maintaining robust supply chains, particularly for emerging economies seeking to integrate into global trade networks.

Africa’s Need to Modernise Its Maritime Sector

Speaking on the development, a Maritime expert, Tairat Abiola Titiloye, , underscored the urgency for African countries—particularly Nigeria—to enhance their logistics capabilities in line with global trends.

She identifiied several key areas for improvement such as digitalisation of port operations:

she said Nigerian ports must fully implement the Port Community System (PCS), integrating customs, terminal operators, and logistics providers into a unified digital platform.

Titiloye recommended blockchain for secure documentation. This she believed investing in blockchain technology can streamline cargo clearance and eliminate bottlenecks.

According to her , adopting automation and AI integration in modernising ports with automated cranes, advanced tracking systems, and AI-powered logistics can reduce turnaround times.

She added that expansion of Inland Dry Ports through development can alleviate congestion at seaports and accelerate the movement of goods.

Policy and Regulatory Reforms is another area she pointed that can help simplify customs procedures and reduce bureaucratic delays.

She mentioned strengthening cybersecurity as measure to protect digital maritime transactions.

“Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) as government incentives and tax breaks can encourage investment in logistics technologies” she said

The Marine time analyst advised that collaboration with global shipping firms will bring best practices into Nigeria’s maritime sector.

She pointed that “sustainable practices in incentives for alternative fuels and electric-powered port machinery align with the IMO’s decarbonisation goals, promoting environmentally friendly supply chains.

Africa’s Position in the E-Commerce Era

As e-commerce giants like Amazon, Alibaba, and Jumia continue to expand, African maritime logistics must evolve to meet rising trade volumes. Nigeria, as West Africa’s primary maritime hub, has the potential to lead in smart port technology and logistics innovation. By embracing digital transformation, infrastructure development, and policy reforms, Nigeria and other African nations can remain competitive in the global trade landscape.

With the right strategies in place, Africa can turn post-COVID maritime logistics challenges into long-term economic opportunities. Governments, industry stakeholders, and investors must recognise the sector’s potential in the digital age.

Titiloye highlights, the future of Africa’s maritime industry depends on how quickly it adapts to the technological revolution reshaping global commerce.

Tairat Abiola Titiloye is a professional in the Nigerian marine business with a decade of experience securing contracts and honours for her company. She holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Lagos State University. She has a knack for problem solving and dispute resolution for her company, a prominent shipping organisation in Nigeria.