Zipline, a drone logistics company based in the U.S., is set to expand its operations to five more states in Nigeria by the end of 2025. The company signed a memorandum of understanding with the Nigerian government in September 2024, enabling it to use drones to deliver essential medical supplies to remote areas.
Having already established drone deployment stations in Bayelsa, Kaduna, and Cross River, Zipline is in discussions with five additional states to expand its network to seven stations. This move aims to enhance healthcare supply chain efficiency in Nigeria, addressing challenges such as poor drug storage, bad roads, and counterfeit drugs.
Zipline’s drones can significantly reduce delivery times compared to traditional methods, reaching areas in as little as 30 minutes that might take healthcare personnel up to 14 hours to access. The company’s recent funding of $330 million has been utilized to enhance its drone technology.
With the goal of improving healthcare access on a large scale, Zipline’s expansion plans in Nigeria include delivering blood and medical equipment to underserved areas. The company is also considering venturing into agricultural supply deliveries and potentially entering the e-commerce logistics sector in the country.
By leveraging its drone technology and infrastructure, Zipline aims to revolutionize the healthcare supply chain in Nigeria and make efficient delivery services accessible to all.