Zipline, a U.S.-based drone logistics company, is set to expand its operations in Nigeria by launching services in five additional states by the end of 2025. This move follows a memorandum of understanding signed with the Nigerian government in September 2024, enabling Zipline to use its cutting-edge drone technology to deliver essential medical supplies to underserved and remote areas.
Currently operating in Bayelsa, Kaduna, and Cross River states, Zipline plans to increase its network to seven drone deployment stations, known as “nests.” These hubs play a crucial role in addressing Nigeria’s healthcare challenges, including poor infrastructure, counterfeit drugs, and delays in medical supply distribution. According to Akin Oyediran, Zipline Nigeria’s country manager, the expansion aims to strengthen healthcare delivery systems across different states.
Each Zipline nest can support up to 300 drone flights daily, delivering life-saving supplies such as vaccines, anti-malaria drugs, and emergency medications within a 38,000 km² radius. The drones can complete deliveries in under 30 minutes, significantly faster than traditional methods that often take hours or even days due to poor road networks.
Since entering the Nigerian market in 2022, Zipline has leveraged its expertise from operations in countries like Rwanda and Ghana. With funding exceeding $900 million and a valuation of $4.2 billion as of May 2023, the company is well-positioned to scale its services. Beyond healthcare, Zipline is exploring opportunities in agriculture and e-commerce logistics to further enhance supply chains across Nigeria.
This expansion shows Zipline’s commitment to improving healthcare access for millions of Nigerians while laying the groundwork for broader applications of its innovative drone technology.
