Blake App Is Transforming Last-Mile Delivery in PH
In Port Harcourt, a city known for its hustle and gridlocked roads, one startup is quietly building a smarter way to move things around. Blake App, founded by Nana Onoriode, is simplifying last-mile logistics through technology, connecting verified riders to users and helping small businesses move packages swiftly, safely, and affordably.
When Onoriode decided to start Blake, it was born out of both frustration and opportunity. From personal experience, he saw how hard it was to find reliable dispatch riders in the South-South region. Many operated without identification, pricing transparency, or professionalism. Blake set out to fix that with an easy-to-use app that shows real-time rider locations, delivery timelines, and standardized pricing.
“We wanted people to see who’s picking up their package, where they are, and when they’ll arrive,” Nana said. “Tech made that possible.”
Launched in August 2024, Blake began as a B2C delivery platform, and like most startups, the early days were far from smooth. Managing riders, fixing app bugs, and convincing people to try something new in a region less receptive to tech adoption were uphill battles. In Port Harcourt, many users were initially skeptical about using an app for deliveries. To encourage adoption, Blake offered a promo: the first delivery was free for every new sign-up. It worked. People began to trust the process, and usage grew.
As Blake’s logistics operations stabilized, the team introduced Blake Food—an in-app food delivery feature designed to give visibility to local food vendors who couldn’t compete on big-name apps. “Most food delivery platforms chase high-profile restaurants,” Nana explained. “We wanted to create opportunities for smaller vendors too.” Customers responded positively, and orders began flowing in. For many vendors, Blake Food became their first digital sales channel.
While Blake Food and dispatch services gained traction, scaling profitably under a B2C model was tough. Early-stage promos and discounts meant the company operated at a loss. More importantly, they realized the market wasn’t just individuals, it was businesses looking for reliable dispatch solutions. Patience, education, and professionalism became their key lessons. “We saw that we had to teach people how to use what we built,” Nana said. “The technology was ready, but the market needed time.”
In 2025, Blake began shifting toward a B2B model. They’re now partnering with other logistics companies, offering affordable rates and verified riders, to help them serve their customers better. The partnerships are intentionally simple, focusing on transparency and mutual growth.
A new product, the Blake Business App, is also on the way. It will help logistics partners manage deliveries, monitor KPIs, and track performance in real time. For Onoriode, 80% of logistics success depends on riders, and that’s why Blake invests heavily in vetting, KYC, and training. Every rider is profiled and identified before they ever make a delivery.
Rider safety is another priority. Blake provides helmets, safety gear, and rainproof overalls, ensuring riders are protected on the job. The result? A growing network of professional riders and a community of loyal, returning customers who have stayed with Blake since launch.
Blake’s ambition doesn’t stop at the South-South. The team is exploring partnerships with corporate logistics operators to expand into other Nigerian cities. They’re also developing the Blake Store, an e-commerce extension where users can shop and have items delivered directly via the Blake network.
Despite Nigeria’s crowded logistics market, Blake isn’t overly worried. “The market is large enough for everyone,” Nana said. “We’re focused on what we do best, fast, reliable, affordable delivery.” With some of the cheapest delivery rates in Port Harcourt, Blake continues to attract both individuals and businesses looking for cost-effective last-mile solutions.
The long-term vision is bold: “We want Blake to be Nigeria’s most reliable dispatch platform, a household name,” Nana said. With Blake Business, Blake Store, and a focus on trust-driven partnerships, the startup is positioning itself as the go-to logistics layer for the South-South and beyond.
For now, one thing remains constant: Get your package anytime, anywhere in Port Harcourt. With Blake, you’re always in charge.