Influence of ICT Adoption on the Operational Inefficiencies in Apapa and Tin Can Island Ports, Lagos State, Nigeria

Abstract

The maritime sector is a critical component of global trade and economic development, playing an indispensable role in facilitating the movement of goods and services across international borders. This study explores the influence of ICT adoption on operational inefficiencies in Apapa and Tin Can Island Ports, Lagos State, Nigeria. The study employed a survey research design with the use of structured questionnaires over the final quarter of 2024. According to the Nigerian Ports Authority (2022), Apapa and Tin Can Island collectively account for the majority of Nigeria’s cargo throughput, with an estimated workforce of 34,773 employees, from which a sample size of 396 respondents was selected using purposive and stratified sampling techniques. Inferential statistics of multiple regression analysis were applied to analyze the data. Findings from the regression analysis revealed that four out of six explanatory variables were statistically significant in explaining the variation of operational inefficiencies. These variables are automation of cargo handling systems (p < .000), electronic documentation (p < .002), real-time tracking of cargo (p < .001), and competence of ICT-skilled personnel (p < .000). The study concludes that ICT adoption substantially improves port operations by reducing inefficiencies. It was recommended that port authorities and the government continue investing in digital infrastructure, capacity building, and system integration to enhance competitiveness and service delivery.