http://irepo.futminna.edu.ng:8080/jspui/handle/123456789/3689 2026-09-14T15:33:59Z http://irepo.futminna.edu.ng:8080/jspui/handle/123456789/31977 Title: Strengthening port-supply chain relationships to maximize AfCFTA benefits in Nigeria Authors: Oni, Babatope Gabriel; Olaomi, Olumayowa Okunola; Ajiboye, Araoye Olarinkoye Abstract: Logistics infrastructure deficiencies in Nigeria result in costs for traders ranging from 40 to 60% of product value, with transportation from seaports to inland areas making up 40 to 80% of total container shipping expenses. This situation detrimentally affects trade competitiveness and undermines the effectiveness of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AFCFTA). Strengthening relationships in the port-supply chain by linking hinterland transportation to the port system at Lagos seaports is vital for improving regionalization efforts. This study explores the relationship between hinterland logistics and port clearance processes in Nigeria and their impact on the effectiveness of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). The study utilized a survey research design involving 43 import-dependent businesses listed on the Nigerian Exchange Group that transport goods via seaport and land. Pearson correlation analysis was used to examine the relationship between transportation costs and port clearance costs. The results indicate a negligible correlation (r = 0.056), with only 0.3% of the variation in clearing costs attributed to transportation expenses. Transportation costs have minimal impact, suggesting that efforts should be focused on other factors, including tariffs and documentation. 2026-09-14T00:00:00Z http://irepo.futminna.edu.ng:8080/jspui/handle/123456789/31974 Title: OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE OF INLAND WATER TRANSPORT IN MOKWA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, NIGER STATE Authors: Abdul, Musa; Ajiboye, Araoye Olarinkoye Abstract: Inland water transport (IWT) is a major mode of transport for a significant population of the country, Nigeria, especially for those residing in riverine areas. The performance of the IWT services plays an important role as it determines the efficiency and effectiveness of the IWT in achieving its mobility aims. This study assesses the operational performance of IWT in Mokwa Local Government Area (LGA) of Niger State. The study further explores the influence of safety practices on the operational performance of IWT. Adopting a descriptive survey research design, the study adopts a quantitative method, relying on data collected using structured questionnaires administered to the users of IWT services. The responses were coded and analysed using mean, average, standard deviation, and regression analysis. The findings revealed that IWT services performance in Mokwa LGA was moderate. However, the system is faced with some challenges and deficiencies such as safety, overloading, and reliability of service. The findings further revealed that adherence to safety practices had a significant influence on the operational performance of the IWT system. The study recommended that the government’s focus should be directed to the implementation of safety laws, the supply of proper safety gear, and the periodic maintenance of ships and infrastructure. 2026-06-18T00:00:00Z http://irepo.futminna.edu.ng:8080/jspui/handle/123456789/31973 Title: Causes of boat mishaps in Mokwa Local Government Area, Niger State Authors: Abdul, Musa; Ajiboye, Araoye Olarinkoye Abstract: Boat mishaps remain a major challenge limiting the efficiency of inland water transportation, especially in rural areas. This study investigated the causes of boat mishaps in Mokwa Local Government Area (LGA) of Niger State, Nigeria. The study adopted a quantitative research design utilising a questionnaire as an instrument for data collection. 115 boat operators served as the population of the study, out of which 30 operators from four major inland water transport (IWT) ports, namely Gbajibo, Poluwaya, Bukka-Gungu-Zaki, and Gbajibo Modu, were sampled. Stratified and accidental sampling techniques were adopted, and responses were analysed using descriptive statistics such as mean and rankings. Secondary data were sourced from the Niger State Ministry of Transport (NSMT) and were further analysed descriptively to complement information sourced from operators. The findings revealed that adverse weather conditions, overloading, poorly marked navigation routes as well as the use of old and poorly maintained boats were the major causes of boat mishaps. The study further established that boat mishaps in the area are often severe, involving high casualty rates and predominantly affecting wooden boats. The study recommended strict enforcement of safety laws, provision and enforced use of life jackets as well as routine dredging of waterways to remove obstructions. 2026-06-18T00:00:00Z http://irepo.futminna.edu.ng:8080/jspui/handle/123456789/31696 Title: Governance Structures and Conflict Mitigation Strategies In Food Supply Chains - Evidence from Niger State, Nigeria Authors: Ajiboye, Araoye Olarinkoye Abstract: Food supply chains in fragile and semi-institutionalised economies continue to experience persistent instability driven by weak governance structures and recurring conflicts among market actors. However, despite extensive studies on food system challenges in Nigeria, there remains limited empirical understanding of how governance structures interact with conflict mitigation mechanisms to shape system stability at the local market level. Available literature tends to treat governance and conflict management as separate processes, thus overlooking their interdependent dynamics within everyday market operations. This study addresses this gap by examining governance structures and conflict mitigation strategies in food supply chains in Niger State, Nigeria. Anchored on Systems Theory, it conceptualises the food supply chain as an interconnected system where institutional arrangements, actor interactions, and structural constraints jointly determine stability outcomes. A mixed-methods design was adopted, involving survey responses from 361 participants selected using Krejcie and Morgan sampling technique, complemented by key informant interviews. Quantitative data were analysed using regression analysis, while qualitative data were thematically examined to enrich interpretation. Findings show that governance effectiveness is significantly shaped by rule clarity (β=0.421), dispute resolution mechanisms (β=0.389), and enforcement structures (β=0.268), while fairness of levies remains relatively weak. Conflict mitigation is largely driven by market associations (β=0.447) and dialogue processes (β=0.402), signifying strong reliance on informal institutions. However, structural factors such as price fluctuations (β=0.401) and competition intensify conflict occurrence, revealing systemic vulnerability beyond governance capacity. The research contributes theoretically by advancing a systems-based explanation of governance–conflict interdependence, empirically by demonstrating the dominance of informal institutions in stability formation, and policy-wise by stressing the need for transparent governance reform and integrated conflict management frameworks in food markets. 2026-05-31T00:00:00Z