COVID-19: Kobo360’s Obi Ozor on how the Lagos shutdown will impact businesses

The recent announcement of a seven-day partial shutdown in Lagos state due to the COVID-19 pandemic has raised concerns about the impact on businesses. Obi Ozor, Co-Founder of Kobo360, a logistics company, shared his insights on how this move will affect various sectors of the economy. Ozor commended the government's decision, stating that the measures are appropriate given the current situation. However, he emphasized the importance of involving all stakeholders, including those in fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) and transport and logistics industries, in the decision-making process. Ozor highlighted the crucial role of truck drivers in ensuring the continued supply of essential goods and stressed the need for clear guidelines to prevent disruptions in supply chains. The lack of prior consultations between Kobo360 and the Lagos state government was a concern raised by Ozor. He underscored the importance of open communication to ensure accurate information sharing and effective support from both the public and private sectors. As the shutdown may be extended depending on the evolving situation, Ozor supported the phased approach, allowing for ongoing assessment of the impact and necessary responses. He emphasized the need for organizations to adapt their operations and maintain communication with partners to ensure business sustainability amid the restrictions on interstate travel. The logistics sector, particularly in the movement of goods, faces challenges during the shutdown. Ozor called for clarity on regulations to prevent disruptions and potential security risks for drivers. The impact on FMCG companies, which rely on efficient supply chains, is significant, with concerns over the availability of raw materials affecting production in the coming months. In response to the economic implications of the pandemic, Ozor discussed the government's stimulus packages and called for effective implementation to support affected businesses. He stressed the importance of reducing logistics costs to prevent price hikes on essential goods and promote last-mile deliveries to enhance convenience for consumers. While acknowledging the seriousness of the situation, Ozor expressed optimism about finding solutions and urged coordination between the private sector and government agencies to navigate the challenges effectively. He highlighted the need for proactive engagement with the central bank to understand and access support initiatives promptly. In conclusion, the impact of the Lagos shutdown on businesses is a shared concern for stakeholders across various industries. As organizations like Kobo360 navigate the evolving landscape, collaboration, communication, and strategic adaptation are essential to mitigate disruptions and ensure resilience in the face of the ongoing crisis.