Improved Port Hinterland Connectivity/Freight Forwarding Practice

Imperative to Boost Nigeria’s Logistics Performance Index

Abstract

The aims to improve port hinterland connectivity and freight forwarding practice in Nigeria in order to boost the country’s Logistics Performance Index. Among others, the objectives were to evaluate the existing infrastructure, transportation networks, and logistics services connecting ports to inland destinations in Nigeria; investigate current freight forwarding practice in Nigeria by exploring how they contribute to or hinder efficient logistics operations and overall performance in the supply chain; identify and analyze the key challenges hindering effective port-hinterland connectivity in Nigeria; analyze the economic implications of improved port-hinterland connectivity and freight forwarding practices on Nigeria’s trade competitiveness and economic development and propose strategic recommendations to stakeholders (government, private sector, logistics providers) for enhancing port-hinterland connectivity and freight forwarding operations in Nigeria. The study adopted the Taro Yamane formula to determine the sample size of 431 and 422 responded with 97.91% response rate. Observation and structured questionnaire was used for the collection of data. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data was coded and analyzed using the 4-point Likert Scale. Accordingly, among others, the study recommends that Public-private partnerships (PPPs) should be encouraged to finance and develop logistics infrastructure and services in Nigeria and a review and update of the regulatory framework governing logistics and transportation in Nigeria is necessary to enhance port hinterland connectivity.