Analysis of the effects of berth characteristics on operational performance of Nigerian seaports

Abstract Nigerian seaports are pivotal to the country’s economic progress, but their efficiency is hindered by inadequate berthing characteristics. This study examines how various berthing factors such as the number of berths, quay length, maximum depth, operational areas, and cargo-specific zones affect the performance of four major Nigerian seaports; Tin Can Island, Apapa, Onne, and Delta. Primary and secondary were utilised. Using the Taro Yamane formula, a sample size of 380 were calculated, and 367 valid questionnaire responses analyzed. The secondary data on the berth-characteristics were obtained from the Nigerian Ports Authority Abstract. Data analysis combined descriptive statistics with inferential methods using SPSS, such as coefficients, ANOVA, and model summary, with results presented in tables. The findings show that while the existing number of berths largely meets traffic demands, congestion occurred during peak periods, highlighting capacity limitations. Quay length was identified as a major determinant of efficiency, longer quay enhances vessel handling and reduce delay. Maximum berth depth was adequate for most operations but emphasized the need for deeper berths to handle larger vessels with high draft requirements. Regression analysis revealed that berth depth, quay length, operational area, management style, dedicated areas, investment in berth infrastructure, and number of berths collectively explained 65.2% of the variability in performance of seaport. The study concludes that enhancing berthing characteristics significantly improve the operational efficiency. Strategic investments to increase berth numbers, extend quay lengths, deepen berths, and create dedicated cargo zones to ease congestion, improve vessel turnaround, and align Nigerian seaports with international standards.