Security-induced disruptions and adaptive resilience in road freight transportation: Evidence from Minna-Kontagora corridor, Nigeria

Abstract

Road freight transportation along the Minna–Kontagora corridor in Niger State, Nigeria, has increasingly been disrupted by insecurity, including armed banditry, kidnapping for ransom, and cargo theft. These challenges have significantly undermined operational efficiency, delivery reliability, and freight stability, with wider economic and social consequences. This study examines the nature of security-induced disruptions and the resilience strategies adopted by freight operators along the corridor. Anchored in resilience theory, the study emphasises adaptive capacity, flexibility, and redundancy as key mechanisms for sustaining operations under adverse conditions. A descriptive survey design was adopted, with a sample size of 400 respondents determined using Taro Yamane’s formula. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires using four-point Likert scale items. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, and tables. Weighted values were assigned to Likert responses (1.5 for strongly agree, 1.0 for agree, 0.5 for disagree, and 0 for strongly disagree) to rank the severity of disruptions and the effectiveness of resilience strategies. Findings indicate that banditry attacks, kidnapping incidents, proliferation of security checkpoints, and pervasive fear among transport workers are major sources of disruption. In response, operators adopt strategies such as rescheduling travel times, rerouting, collaboration with security agencies and local vigilantes, use of communication technologies, and absorption of increased operational costs. The study concludes that while insecurity remains a critical constraint, freight operators demonstrate notable resilience. It recommends coordinated efforts among government agencies, security institutions, and transport stakeholders to develop integrated security frameworks and communication systems to enhance safety and ensure sustainable freight movement.