Nigeria commissions Zipline drone distribution centre in Bayelsa

Nigeria’s Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Ali Pate, and Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, have officially commissioned a state-of-the-art distribution centre for Zipline, an instant logistics and drone delivery service, in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State to improve healthcare services.

The launch marks a major milestone in Bayelsa’s efforts to enhance healthcare infrastructure, ensuring timely medical deliveries despite logistical challenges.

The facility, Zipline’s operational hub, integrates advanced warehousing, cold storage, and inventory management to facilitate rapid, on-demand medical deliveries. Covering 38,000 square kilometers, it serves hundreds of health facilities, reaching even the most remote communities.

Since its launch in Bayelsa in 2023, Zipline has delivered over one million vaccine doses and more than 71,000 units of essential medicines. The company has played a key role in multiple health campaigns, supplying critical supplements and medications to residents. With operations now expanding to 73 of Bayelsa’s 83 wards, Zipline continues to strengthen healthcare access across the state.

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Equipped with autonomous drones capable of a 200 km roundtrip, Zipline ensures seamless medical deliveries irrespective of weather conditions or terrain. The facility is expected to reduce stockouts, enhance emergency response, and improve medical supply chains.

Speaking at the event, Pate emphasised the federal government’s commitment to leveraging technology for healthcare improvements. “The integration of drone technology is a bold step towards innovative healthcare delivery,” he stated.

On the other hand, Governor Diri highlighted its impact on Bayelsa’s riverine communities, noting that over 20,000 zero-dose children have now received vaccinations.

Zipline’s African operations are 100 percent locally led, creating 30–40 high-skilled jobs per distribution centre. The company has directly employed over 400 professionals while contributing to rural economic development.

Beyond healthcare, Zipline’s technology has potential applications in agriculture and e-commerce, boosting economic growth and supply chain efficiency across Nigeria.