Nigerian logistics firm Cargoplug launches first UK hub to serve growing demand for bilateral trade logistics.
Cargoplug Establishes Presence in the UK
Nigerian logistics startup Cargoplug (site) has officially launched operations in the United Kingdom, opening its first self-run hub in a move designed to enhance trade efficiency between the UK and Nigeria. Founded in 2013, by Kikelomo Fola-Ogunniya and Ujama Akpata, Cargoplug has rapidly gained traction as a key logistics facilitator for Nigerian SMEs and e-commerce businesses, with a tech-driven model that streamlines the shipment and clearance of goods.
Today, Cargoplug leverages its proprietary technology to support both B2B and B2B2C markets, providing smooth API integrations for clients such as e-commerce platforms, logistics companies, and international lifestyle brands.
The UK expansion marks a major milestone for the company as it positions itself to capitalize on increasing bilateral trade between Africa and Europe, particularly in the wake of Brexit-era trade realignments and the growing Nigerian diaspora in the UK.
A Strategic Leap for Cross-Border Trade
Cargoplug’s UK hub is expected to serve as a pivotal logistics centre for goods moving between Nigeria and the UK, offering businesses on both sides faster, more transparent, and cost-efficient solutions. The move underscores the startup’s long-term strategy to internationalize its logistics infrastructure.
“After over a decade of exponential growth through valued partnerships, we’re thrilled to launch our first self-run UK hub. This sees us doubling down on our commitment to being the go-to logistics firm for the movement of goods between the UK and Nigeria,” said Kikelomo Fola-Ogunniya, co-founder at Cargoplug.
“This is a mission that originated after our firsthand experience of the challenges of costly, delayed, and opaque shipping fees, tariffs and processes after returning to Nigeria from studying in the UK. Establishing our on-the-ground presence here was the natural next step in our growth as a company, even as we now set sights on some of our other high traffic markets such as the US, Turkey and China,” she said.
Positioning for a Pan-African Future
While Cargoplug’s current focus is on the Nigeria-UK corridor, the startup has ambitions beyond bilateral routes. With the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) promising to unlock new regional trade opportunities, the firm’s scalable platform is well-positioned to handle increased demand across intra-African routes as well.
Cargoplug’s move is not just about geographic expansion; it’s about aligning with Africa’s broader economic integration goals and asserting the continent’s role in global logistics and trade innovation.
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