Founder of Leagile Supply Service, Arogundade Oluwasegun, has called on stakeholders in Nigeria’s manufacturing and logistics sectors to adopt Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT) technology, and blockchain applications to improve efficiency and enhance consumer satisfaction.

Speaking on the role of technology in strengthening supply chains, Arogundade highlighted the potential of IoT in agro-logistics, particularly for real-time monitoring of temperature conditions during the transportation of agricultural products from farms to production sites or retail outlets.

He said the technology can help ensure quality compliance, detect bottlenecks through real-time positioning, and improve risk management.

Citing a 2024 McKinsey report, he noted that reverse logistics can be protected from fraudulent activities through blockchain and RFID technology, which guarantee the non-repudiation of online transactions.

He added that sectors such as the ready-to-wear fashion industry are already applying digital signatures and security protocols to enhance traceability, security, and authentication of returned products.

With a background in the paper conversion industry and current involvement in foam production for the sleep and furniture markets, Arogundade said he applies fit-for-purpose technology to manage end-to-end supply chain processes.

Using AI tools, he analyzes consumer preferences and behavioral patterns to guide the conceptualization, design, sourcing, procurement, and delivery of products. He said AI can also forecast demand using historical data to align supply with market needs.

Identifying coordination as a major challenge in Nigeria’s supply chain ecosystem, Arogundade stressed the importance of detecting changes in consumer preferences early to avoid stockouts or overstocking. He said predictable demand makes supply chain management more effective.

Drawing from his experience with enterprise resource planning applications such as SAP B1, S/4 HANA, Microsoft Dynamics Navision, Forecast Pro, IoT sensors, and QR/RFID inventory trackers, he noted that these tools enable tracing process deviations to their root causes, improving customer satisfaction.

However, he warned that siloed transactions and resistance from partners—due to cultural misalignment and fears of job losses—remain barriers to technology adoption.

He cited the Nigeria Customs Service’s recent migration to a new technology provider without a smooth data transition, saying it has increased raw material input costs and cost importers millions of naira.

Arogundade recommended wider adoption of IoT and specialized applications, as well as the use of blockchain systems by agencies such as NAFDAC, CBN, NCS, and SON for secure, transparent, and centralized data exchange. He said such measures would help reduce corruption, speed up import clearance, and improve service delivery.

“Government must prioritize consumer satisfaction as the foremost goal,” he said, urging closer collaboration between regulators and the organized private sector to address the real challenges facing manufacturers and suppliers.