EFFECT OF PORT INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT ON CARGO DELIVERY EFFICIENCY AT TIN CAN ISLAND PORT NIGERIA

This study examined the effect of port infrastructural development on cargo delivery efficiency at Tin Can Island Port, Nigeria, using a quantitative survey design based on primary data collected with a structured fourpoint Likertscale questionnaire. Andrew Fisher’s formula produced an initial sample size of 384.16, which, after finite population correction, was adjusted to approximately 278 respondents, ensuring adequate power for statistical analysis and feasible field administration. The regression results at a 95 percent confidence level show a strong relationship between infrastructural development and cargo delivery efficiency, with correlation coefficients up to R = 0.852, coefficients of determination R2 = 0.726 and adjusted R2 = 0.722. The key infrastructure predictors; berth/equipping facilities, cargohandling equipment, storage infrastructure and power/ICT systems, exhibiting positive, statistically significant effects at p < 0.001. Berth/equipping facilities consistently emerged as the most influential predictor, followed by cargohandling equipment, power/ICT and storage infrastructure, indicating that physical and mechanical constraints are critical drivers of efficiency outcomes. The study concludes that comprehensive infrastructural upgrading is an evidencebased core strategy for improving cargo throughput, vessel turnaround time and overall delivery performance at Tin Can Island Port, but that residual variance points to the need for complementary operational and regulatory reforms. It recommends phased berth rehabilitation and equipment modernization, investments in reliable power and integrated ICT platforms, and process reengineering of clearance, labour practices and hinterland connectivity to secure sustainable, systemwide efficiency gains.