By Ernest Eleodinmuo

According to data from the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) Nigeria, over 70% of truck drivers and warehouse operators in Nigeria are above the age of 45. This staggering statistic points to a looming human capital crisis in one of Nigeria’s most critical economic sectors. As the backbone of commerce and trade, logistics and transportation underpin everything from e-commerce to industrial supply chains. Yet, the sector is rapidly aging – and not enough is being done to attract, train, and retain young professionals to sustain its future.

In a nation where over 60% of the population is under the age of 25, it is paradoxical that an industry with such a strong economic foothold struggles to attract youth. This disconnect is not just a missed opportunity – it’s a warning bell.

The Ageing Workforce Threat

Nigeria’s haulage and logistics ecosystem is heavily reliant on a generation of professionals nearing retirement, with very limited efforts toward structured succession. Field research from the National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) shows that many transport firms rely on informal recruitment and rarely invest in training young drivers, dispatch officers, or fleet managers. Consequently, the pipeline for new talent is dangerously thin.

This labour shortage will only be compounded by the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), which is projected to increase intra-African freight volumes by over 28% by 2030. Without a renewed focus on human capital, Nigeria risks being left behind in a sector that is on the brink of transformation.

Why Are Youth Staying Away?

There are several reasons for the youth disengagement. First, logistics is perceived as labour-intensive, low-paying, and lacking prestige. In an era where many young Nigerians are drawn to tech, finance, and creative sectors, logistics is simply not on their radar. Second, there is no national talent framework to integrate logistics into the formal economy or promote its appeal among career-minded youths. Third, young professionals who do venture into the sector often encounter poor working conditions, limited career growth, and outdated systems.

Lessons from South Africa

Nigeria can learn from South Africa, which has taken measurable steps to integrate youth into the logistics sector. The South African Department of Transport, in collaboration with the South African International Maritime Institute (SAIMI), launched the Maritime Youth Development Programme, aimed at skilling unemployed youth in port operations, freight handling, and marine logistics.

In 2022 alone, over 1,500 young South Africans were enrolled in various logistics-related apprenticeships under the scheme. Coupled with targeted tax incentives and corporate partnerships, the initiative is creating a youthful, skilled logistics workforce prepared to scale with the country’s growing trade ambitions.

What Nigeria Must Do

Nigeria needs a clear and intentional strategy to empower young professionals in logistics. The benefits are twofold: First, it addresses the current labour gap. Second, it unlocks innovation, as young people bring digital fluency, fresh ideas, and an entrepreneurial spirit.

1. Develop a National Talent Strategy for Logistics

The Federal Government, in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport, Youth and Sports, and industry associations, should introduce a National Logistics Talent Development Framework. This would map out critical skill areas – fleet management, customs clearing, route optimization, warehousing – and create pathways for youth entry through training, certification, and internship programmes.

Such a framework could be built into the Nigerian Economic Sustainability Plan, recognizing logistics as a strategic employer of labour.

2. Create Youth-Focused Apprenticeship Programmes

Much like Nigeria’s Industrial Training Fund (ITF), a Logistics Youth Apprenticeship Scheme can be created, connecting logistics companies with fresh graduates, polytechnic students, and vocational trainees. Companies who train and absorb these interns should receive tax rebates or access to low-interest loans from development banks like BOI or NIRSAL.

3. Formalize and Digitize the Industry

Much of Nigeria’s logistics sector still operates informally. From truck drivers without contracts to freight brokers operating without tech tools, the informality dissuades many educated youth. By incentivizing companies to digitize operations and register formally, the government can attract a more professional workforce.

Additionally, platforms like Kobo360, GIGL, and Lori Systems – which already use mobile technology to connect haulage providers with clients – can become talent incubators through youth recruitment programmes.

4. Rebrand Logistics for the Digital Economy

The future of logistics is digital. From telematics and electric vehicles to AI-powered route planning, the logistics sector is undergoing rapid digital transformation. Yet, few young Nigerians know this.

Targeted campaigns through platforms like LinkedIn, TikTok, and YouTube can highlight logistics as a tech-forward industry. Feature stories of young logistics professionals, innovative start-ups, and the economic potential of careers in this space. Show them the future – and let them shape it.

5. Leverage AfCFTA for Youth-Led Export Logistics

With the AfCFTA unlocking trade routes and lowering tariffs across Africa, logistics capacity will be vital to moving goods seamlessly across borders. Young Nigerians must be trained to become freight forwarders, customs agents, and regional transport operators.

Creating AfCFTA Youth Logistics Hubs in key border towns like Seme (Lagos), Jibia (Katsina), and Idiroko(Ogun) can enable Nigeria to position itself as a logistics powerhouse on the continent.

Nigeria’s logistics sector is at a crossroads. Without bold, coordinated action, the industry risks collapse under the weight of an aging workforce, outdated systems, and growing regional competition.

But the solution is right before us: Nigeria’s youth. With energy, digital savvy, and entrepreneurial flair, they can transform the sector into a beacon of efficiency, sustainability, and innovation. All it takes is intentional investment, national alignment, and public-private collaboration.

As the world moves goods faster, smarter, and greener, Nigeria must ensure that her future logistics professionals are not only trained – but empowered, respected, and ready to lead.

About the Author

Ernest Eleodinmuo is the CEO of NNORUKA ELEODINMUO GLOBAL SERVICES LTD, a leading Nigerian haulage firm with over a decade of experience in logistics, shipping, and freight forwarding. He writes from Lagos, Nigeria.