The Postmaster-General of Nigeria, Ms Tola Odeyemi, has attributed the Nigeria Postal Service’s challenges in meeting delivery timelines to poor road infrastructure and financial constraints.
Speaking on an Arise TV interview program over the weekend, Odeyemi acknowledged that while NIPOST aims for efficient service, it faces practical obstacles in achieving its goals.
NIPOST promises on its website to deliver intra-city parcels within 24 hours, inter-city parcels within 48 hours, and nationwide deliveries within 72 hours. However, when questioned about meeting these targets, Odeyemi candidly admitted shortcomings, especially in inter-state deliveries, citing issues such as road conditions, financial limitations, and inadequate infrastructure.
“We’re not meeting some of those deliveries,” Odeyemi stated frankly. “We may be meeting intra-city targets, but inter-state deliveries are often delayed due to road networks and financial constraints.”
In response to these challenges, Odeyemi hinted at a possible review of NIPOST’s delivery timelines to better align with operational realities. She highlighted ongoing efforts in data collection to assess and potentially adjust these timelines, particularly for non-priority items, while underscoring NIPOST’s social obligation to the public.
To mitigate some of these challenges, Odeyemi explained that NIPOST prioritizes air transport for urgent parcels to expedite delivery times. This strategy involves transporting priority items by air to the nearest airport and then using road networks for final delivery, if necessary.
Moreover, Odeyemi clarified NIPOST’s role in the courier sector, emphasizing that it operates as a regulator rather than a direct competitor to courier companies. NIPOST, through its regulatory framework, facilitates the licensing and operation of international, national, and MSME courier firms in Nigeria. She noted that NIPOST’s extensive network and universal service obligation support these companies in last-mile delivery and mail processing.
“We’re not competing with courier companies; rather, we complement their efforts,” Odeyemi affirmed. “NIPOST plays a crucial role in ensuring sectoral growth and contributing to Nigeria’s development.”
Before assuming office last year, Odeyemi’s appointment followed calls from Nigerians for reforms within NIPOST under the leadership of Dr. Bosun Tijan, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy.
These reforms aimed to position NIPOST akin to the Nigerian Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS) and enhance its role in driving e-commerce growth, responding to public expectations for a modernized postal service.
In conclusion, NIPOST continues to navigate operational challenges while striving to enhance service delivery across Nigeria. Odeyemi’s leadership underscores the agency’s commitment to addressing infrastructural limitations, optimizing delivery timelines, and fostering a supportive environment for Nigeria’s courier industry.
