INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue X October 2025
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Influence of ICT Adoption on the Operational Inefficiencies in Apapa
and Tin Can Island Ports, Lagos State, Nigeria
Aworemi J. R., Abel O. K.
Department of Transport Management, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo
State, Nigeria
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2025.910000450
Received: 16 October 2025; Accepted: 23 October 2025; Published: 15 November 2025
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.
Keywords: ICT adoption, Operational inefficiency, Maritime logistics, Apapa Port, Tin Can Island Port
INTRODUCTION
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 (United
Nations Conference on Trade and Development [UNCTAD], 2021). Ports serve as the primary gateways for
global commerce, handling significant volumes of cargo and contributing to national economic growth (World
Bank, 2020). Efficient port operations require a combination of robust security mechanisms and advanced
technological infrastructures to ensure smooth logistics, prevent illicit activities, and maintain competitive
advantages (Notteboom & Winkelmans, 2020). In Nigeria, the maritime sector remains a fundamental pillar of
trade and economic activities, with its ports serving as major transit points for imports and exports (Akinyemi
& Olanrewaju, 2020). The country's strategic location along the Gulf of Guinea positions it as a key player in
regional and international trade (International Maritime Bureau [IMB], 2021).
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has transformed the efficiency, transparency, and security
of port activities by facilitating real-time tracking of cargo, automating customs clearance processes, and
enhancing communication between stakeholders in the maritime sector (Notteboom, 2020). The global
maritime industry has witnessed significant advancements in digital port management systems, including
blockchain-based documentation, electronic cargo tracking, and automated vessel monitoring. These
innovations have played a crucial role in improving port efficiency, reducing operational costs, and enhancing
the competitiveness of ports in international trade.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
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The extent to which ICT adoption influences operational inefficiencies in Nigerian ports remains unclear.
While ICT has been widely recognized as a tool for reducing inefficiencies in port operations, its impact in the
Nigerian context has not been adequately quantified (Adeniran, 2017; Emeaghalu & Okeke, 2021).
Operational inefficiencies, such as prolonged cargo clearance times and high logistics costs, continue to plague
Nigerian ports, undermining their competitiveness (Notteboom & Rodrigue, 2018; Bichou, 2011). A detailed
analysis of the relationship between ICT adoption and operational inefficiencies is essential to provide
actionable insights for policymakers and port authorities. In light of these gaps, this study will evaluate the
extent to which ICT adoption influences operational inefficiencies in Nigerian ports.
LITERATURE REVIEW
Concept of ICT in Ports
ICT encompasses a range of digital tools and systems that facilitate data exchange, communication, and
automation across various sectors, including the maritime industry. In port operations, ICT adoption involves
the use of technologies such as electronic documentation systems, automated container handling, and digital
tracking solutions to streamline logistics processes and enhance overall efficiency. According to González and
Trujillo (2018), ICT solutions in port operations are designed to minimize delays, reduce paperwork, and
improve coordination among stakeholders, including terminal operators, customs authorities, shipping lines,
and regulatory agencies.
Nigerian ports have increasingly embraced ICT-driven solutions to address long-standing inefficiencies
associated with manual operations and bureaucratic bottlenecks. The implementation of electronic port
community systems, digital customs clearance platforms, and automated terminal operating systems has
significantly improved cargo clearance, reduced congestion, and enhanced security in Nigerian ports
(Ugochukwu & Ekong, 2020). Despite these advancements, many Nigerian ports still struggle with full-scale
ICT adoption due to infrastructural deficits and limited technological expertise among port workers.
Operational Inefficiency
Operational inefficiency in Nigerian ports has been increasingly conceptualized in recent studies as a
multidimensional phenomenon shaped by the interplay of infrastructural, institutional, procedural, and
technological factors (Nwaogbe et al., 2024; Osadume, 2024). From the infrastructural perspective,
inefficiency emerges when existing port capacity fails to meet rising trade demands, producing vessel queuing,
berth congestion, and prolonged turnaround times (Nwaogbe et al., 2024; Braimoh, 2023). Beyond capacity
issues, institutional and governance challenges remain critical, as overlapping mandates between the Nigerian
Ports Authority, customs, and private concessionaires weaken coordination, reduce accountability, and
undermine reform outcomes (Nsikan, 2023; World Bank, 2021).
Procedural bottlenecks also constitute a major dimension of inefficiency. Multiple cargo inspections, complex
documentation requirements, and cumbersome clearance procedures raise transaction costs and extend cargo
dwell times far above global benchmarks (Osadume, 2024; Braimoh, 2023). Equally, inefficiency is
conceptualized through technological shortfalls, where the limited adoption and integration of port community
systems, e-single windows, and automated terminal operating systems constrain digital transformation and
reduce operational speed (Nsikan, 2023; World Bank, 2021).
Past studies emphasize that these inefficiencies are not isolated but systemic, with infrastructure gaps,
procedural delays, governance failures, and weak digital adoption reinforcing one another to sustain persistent
congestion and high logistics costs (Nwaogbe et al., 2024; Osadume, 2024). Consequently, contemporary
scholarship proposes a holistic conceptualization in which inefficiency is understood as an emergent property
of interdependent subsystems rather than as discrete operational failures (Braimoh, 2023; Nsikan, 2023). This
systems-based view suggests that targeted reforms in one dimension, such as infrastructure expansion without
procedural or technological improvements, may only shift bottlenecks rather than resolve them, thereby
underscoring the need for integrated solutions to port inefficiency in Nigeria.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
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Empirical review
Emelogu (2023) study, which is based on semi-structured interviews with leaders and managers of maritime
enterprises in Lagos, Nigeria, finds that the integration of digital strategies into business processes can
transform the industry by improving operational efficiency and capturing more value. The author recommends
continuous integration of technology-based solutions, workforce digital upskilling, and strict intervention and
support by the government and other stakeholders to drive compliance and influence change in the
management of maritime business operations. These findings are consistent with Janmethakulwat and
Thanasopon (2024), who provide a similar analysis in the context of Thailand’s maritime industry. The authors
identify factors such as reliable IT infrastructure, organizational culture, and government support as key drivers
of digital adoption. Their findings suggest that the institutionalization of digital technologies requires not only
technical solutions but also organizational and regulatory support. This perspective is consistent with Adenigbo
et al. (2023), who examine the air cargo logistics industry in South Africa and find that technological
innovations significantly improve operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.
However, Adenigbo et al. (2023) also note that the industry’s reluctance to adopt new technologies stems from
a lack of awareness and investment, a challenge that is equally relevant to the maritime sector. The authors
recommend the prompt adoption and implementation of technological innovations to improve quality service
delivery, customer satisfaction, and loyalty in the air cargo logistics industry. These findings highlight the
importance of addressing the barriers to ICT adoption in the maritime industry, particularly in developing
economies where infrastructure and investment are often lacking.
METHODOLOGY
The study focused on Apapa and Tin Can Island Ports in Lagos State, which handle over 70% of Nigeria’s
cargo traffic. A survey research design was adopted using structured questionnaires administered over the final
quarter of 2024. 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, while the estimated workforce population
across both ports stands at 34,773 employees (Author’s Computation, 2024). Using purposive and stratified
sampling, a sample size of 396 respondents was selected to represent port operators, regulatory officials, law
enforcement personnel, and ICT professionals. Data analysis employed multiple regression analysis to
examine the influence of ICT adoption on the operational inefficiencies.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Findings from the result of multiple regression analysis provided critical insights into the influence of ICT
adoption on operational inefficiencies in Apapa and Tin Can Island Ports. The Model Summary in Table One
(1) revealed that the regression model explains 28.5% (R² = 0.285) of the variance in operational
inefficiencies, with an adjusted R² of 0.274 indicating that the model maintains robustness even after
controlling for complexity. The standard error of the estimate (.621) suggests a moderate level of accuracy
between predicted and observed values. This indicates that ICT adoption variables collectively play a
meaningful role in reducing inefficiencies within Nigerian ports. Furthermore, the ANOVA results in Table
One (1) demonstrated the model’s statistical significance, with an F-statistic of 25.859 and a p-value < 0.000.
This confirms that the combined effect of the predictors (automation of cargo handling systems, electronic
documentation, real-time tracking of cargo, digital customs clearance, cybersecurity infrastructure, and
competence of ICT-skilled personnel) significantly explains operational inefficiencies.
The Coefficients Table Two (2) provided detailed insights into the specific contributions of each ICT predictor
to operational inefficiencies. Competence of ICT-skilled personnel has the strongest and most significant
positive impact (β = .263, p < .000), underscoring the importance of human expertise in leveraging technology
to drive efficiency. Real-time tracking of cargo also demonstrated a strong positive effect (β = .237, p < .001),
highlighting the critical role of visibility and monitoring systems in minimizing delays and bottlenecks.
Similarly, automation of cargo handling systems (β = .238, p < .000) significantly improves operational
efficiency by reducing manual processes and turnaround time. Electronic documentation (β = .137, p < .002)
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
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makes a meaningful contribution, emphasizing the reduction of paperwork bottlenecks and improved
transparency in operations. Digital customs clearance (β = .091, p < .042) has a modest yet significant effect,
pointing to its role in expediting trade facilitation and clearance procedures. Cybersecurity infrastructure (β =
.098, p < .029) also contributes positively, albeit to a smaller extent, ensuring secure and reliable ICT-driven
port operations.
The analysis underscores the pivotal role of ICT adoption in addressing port operational inefficiencies. The
findings suggest that while ICT-skilled personnel competence, real-time cargo tracking, and automation
systems are the most critical drivers of efficiency, there remain opportunities to strengthen electronic
documentation, enhance digital clearance systems, and reinforce cybersecurity frameworks. By strategically
prioritizing these ICT dimensions, Nigerian ports can substantially reduce inefficiencies, improve service
delivery, and align more closely with global best practices in maritime logistics.
Table 1:Model Summary and ANOVA
a
Multiple R
R Square (R
2
)
Adjusted R Square (R
2
)
Standard Error
.534
a
.285
.274
.621
Analysis of Variance Table
Model
df
Mean Square
F
Sig.
1
Regression
6
9.966
25.859
.000
b
Residual
389
.385
Total
395
Source: Data Analysis (2024)
Table 2: Coefficients
a
Model
Unstandardized
Coefficients
Standardized
Coefficients
t
Sig.
B
Std. Error
Beta
1
(Constant)
.557
.163
3.426
.001
Automation of cargo handling system
.148
.028
.238
5.224
.000
Electronic documentation
.095
.031
.137
3.079
.002
Real time tracking of cargo
.161
.031
.237
5.247
.001
Digital customs clearance
.063
.031
.091
2.044
.042
Cyber security infrastructure
.061
.028
.098
2.193
.029
Competence ICT skilled personnel
.179
.032
.263
5.640
.000
a. Dependent Variable: Operational Inefficiency
Source: Data Analysis (2024)
The findings from the multiple regression analysis suggest that ICT adoption plays a significant role in
influencing operational inefficiencies at Apapa and Tin Can Island Ports. The model, which includes factors
such as automation of cargo handling systems, electronic documentation, real-time tracking of cargo, digital
customs clearance, cybersecurity infrastructure, and competence of ICT-skilled personnel, explains 28.5% of
the variance in port inefficiencies (R = .534, R² = .285, Adjusted R² = .274). The regression analysis confirms
the significant contributions of these ICT adoption predictors, with an F-value of 25.859 and a p < .000,
indicating that the model is statistically significant.
Among the predictors, competence of ICT-skilled personnel, real-time tracking of cargo, and automation of
cargo handling systems exert the strongest positive influence on reducing inefficiencies. For instance, ICT-
skilled personnel (β = .263, p < .000) and real-time cargo tracking (β = .237, p < .001) demonstrate critical
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
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contributions, while automation of cargo handling systems (β = .238, p < .000) shows substantial influence in
streamlining port operations. Electronic documentation (β = .137, p < .002) also makes a meaningful impact,
reducing bureaucratic bottlenecks and enhancing transparency. Digital customs clearance (β = .091, p < .042)
and cybersecurity infrastructure (β = .098, p < .029) contribute positively but to a lesser extent. These findings
align with existing literature emphasizing ICT as a driver of port efficiency and competitiveness in global
maritime logistics (Okeke & Anyanwu, 2020; Akinwale et al., 2022; Nwokedi, 2023). The results indicate that
while ICT adoption significantly improves port operations, certain areas such as digital clearance and
cybersecurity require continuous optimization to maximize efficiency gains.
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
The study concludes that ICT adoption has a statistically significant influence on reducing operational
inefficiencies in Apapa and Tin Can Island Ports, with competence of ICT-skilled personnel, automation of
cargo handling, and real-time cargo tracking emerging as the most critical drivers, while electronic
documentation, digital customs clearance, and cybersecurity infrastructure also play supportive roles. To
enhance efficiency and global competitiveness, port authorities should prioritize continuous ICT capacity
building, sustain investment in automation and cargo visibility systems, and strengthen digital clearance
processes alongside robust cybersecurity frameworks, ensuring more seamless and effective port operations.
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