AN EVALUATION OF NIGERIAN PORTS POST-CONCESSION PERFORMANCE

ABSTRACT: This study focuses on the evaluation of Nigerian ports post-concession performance using Onne and Rivers ports as a reference point. It analyses the pre and post reform eras of the ports in terms of their performance. The reforms took effect from 2006 after the Federal Government of Nigeria concessioned the ports to private investors. Parameters such as Ship traffic, Cargo throughput, Ship turn round time, Berth Occupancy and personnel were used as variables for the assessment. Secondary Data were collected from the Nigerian Ports Authority and Integrated Logistics Services Nigeria (INTELS) for the period 2001 to 2010 and analyzed using two techniques, a two-sample t-test to evaluate the difference between sample means and Data Envelopment Analysis to assess the efficiency of the ports.The findings show that the reforms resulted in significant improvements in cargo throughput as compared to the pre-reform era. The t-test shows that average Port throughput has increased significantly since the reform(concessioning) came into effect.Data envelopment analysis revealed a continuous improvement in the overall efficiency of both Ports since 2006 when the new measure was introduced. Average Ship turnaround time improved in the ports due to modern and fast cargo handling equipment and more cargo handling space which were provided. There is an increase in Ship traffic calling at the ports, resulting in increased cargo throughput and berth occupancy rate at the ports of Onne and Rivers. The reform also led to more private investment in the ports’ existing and new facilities and the introduction of a World Class service in port operation. This study concludes that the ports of Onne and Rivers are performing better under the reform programme of the Federal Government of Nigeria. It finally recommends the introductionof an integrated intermodal transport system for an effective and swift transfer of cargoes to and from the hinterland. Also, there is an urgent need for a regulator to appraise the performance of the reform programme from time to time as provided by the agreement and for the full adoption and utilization of management information system (MIS) to aid performance efficiency.