Supply chain management systems in Africa: insights from Nigeria

Abstract

This chapter investigates the barriers and driving forces of supply chain collaboration in Nigeria as prior research has not adequately explored this issue in developing countries. Using an in-depth qualitative interviews conducted with purchasing and supply chain managers in the food and beverage manufacturing industry in Nigeria, our results reveal the fragmented nature of supply chain management systems. Our findings also show how supply chain collaborations struggle to flourish in a highly unpredictable market. Thus, this chapter offers insights into the different factors that act as barriers to effective collaboration between supply chain partners. We also show how IT infrastructure and digital technologies could be used as a springboard to promote collaboration in the African context. The barriers and drivers are segmented into three distinct levels such as external, internal, and supply chain level. The theoretical and practical implications of this research are highlighted.