Expert advocates supply chain management in schools

A supply chain management expert and managing partner at ADKO Investment Ltd, Yetunde Adeoye, has called for the inclusion of SCM courses in Nigerian high schools and universities.

Speaking at a conference with Nigerian educators, Adeoye emphasised the need for early-stage awareness and structured academic programmes to address the knowledge gap and enhance career opportunities in the sector.

Adeoye, who has over 20 years experience in global supply chain operations and is a member of the Association of Supply Chain Management, United States, highlighted the crucial role of SCM in business operations, logistics, procurement, and distribution. She noted that despite its significance, SCM remains largely under-represented in Nigerian institutions, leaving many graduates unprepared for careers in the field.

“The inclusion of supply chain management as a standalone course in Nigerian colleges is crucial,” Adeoye stated. “Nigeria’s expanding industries, including agriculture, oil and gas, manufacturing, and retail, require professionals who can optimise supply chains for efficiency and profitability. Without formal SCM education, many employees enter the field with no prior knowledge, forcing companies to spend significant resources on training, which affects productivity.”

Adeoye explained that SCM offers vast career prospects in industries such as e-commerce, procurement, and supply chain consultancy, helping to create more job opportunities for young graduates. She also emphasised that in today’s globalised economy, Nigeria needs skilled supply chain professionals to remain competitive in international trade.

“With the rise of digital supply chains and automation in logistics, we need an educated workforce that can adapt to technological advancements. Many Nigerian graduates lack specialised knowledge in supply chain logistics, procurement, and inventory management, leading to inefficiencies across various sectors. A well-trained supply chain workforce will enhance productivity, reduce waste, and improve Nigeria’s global trade competitiveness,” she added.

Adeoye further outlined the benefits of introducing SCM into Nigerian colleges, stating, “Graduates with SCM expertise can help businesses minimise costs, reduce waste, and improve service delivery. With the right knowledge, students can even establish logistics firms, supply chain consultancies, or procurement agencies, contributing to entrepreneurial growth.”

She urged the Nigerian government, private sector, and educational institutions to collaborate in integrating SCM into the national curriculum. “The Nigerian government and educational bodies should introduce SCM as a full-fledged course or integrate it into business and engineering programmes. Colleges must also work closely with industry experts to develop practical, industry-relevant curricula,” she suggested.

Adeoye called for increased awareness among students, proposing career workshops, industry-led seminars, and mentorship programmes. “We need to educate students on SCM career prospects through guest lectures, media campaigns, and collaborations with logistics and supply chain companies. This will ensure that more young people see SCM as a viable and rewarding career path,” she explained.

She also emphasised the importance of public-private partnerships in driving this initiative.