Zipline, a US-based drone technology company, is collaborating with the Nigerian government to transform healthcare accessibility and equity via advanced drone delivery solutions. The company’s Co-Founder, Keller Cliffton, announced the initiative on Tuesday in Lagos.
The partnership aims to address healthcare gaps, improve infrastructure, and ensure timely delivery of medical supplies across Nigeria. Cliffton emphasized that Zipline’s mission is to enable access to vulnerable and hard-to-reach populations.
Since its inception, Zipline has successfully delivered millions of vaccine doses, essential medicines, and over 260 types of health products to more than 900 hospitals, health facilities, and community drop points. The company has also invested in building local infrastructure and human capacity across Africa, creating over 500 jobs in fields such as robotics, healthcare, software engineering, and business.
The partnership intends to establish a sustainable financing framework to attract commitments from global health, economic development, and climate funders. This will facilitate the creation of autonomous drone infrastructure in strategically chosen locations throughout the country.
Cliffton highlighted that this collaboration could bring tens of millions of dollars in foreign investment, transforming Nigeria into a global hub for Artificial Intelligence and robotics while generating future job opportunities for its youth.
Notable partners, including Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and the Elton John AIDS Foundation, have previously collaborated with Zipline in various initiatives, further supporting the vision for this new partnership in Nigeria.
The Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Muhammad Pate, also mentioned that President Bola Tinubu has introduced reforms aimed at improving Nigeria’s security, strengthening public services, and enhancing the business environment since taking office.