Date of Award
2015
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Master of Science in Maritime Affairs
Specialization
Shipping Management & Logistics
Campus
Malmö, Sweden
Country
Nigeria
First Advisor
Ma, Shuo.
Abstract
This dissertation examines the relationship between logistics performance and international trade competitiveness. It aims to identify the challenges of logistics performance in Nigeria and analyse their effects on international trade competitiveness. The study also seeks to identify possible solutions for improving logistics performance for better competitiveness in foreign trade. The study takes a trend and comparative analysis approach to providing answers to the research questions and analyses quantitative and qualitative data, balancing established statistical data with expert opinions from a survey administered to 100 personnel actively involved with logistics and trade. The outcome of the survey showed that logistics performance in Nigeria is plagued by poor state and interconnectivity of transport infrastructure; trade disabling policies; inadequate handling equipment; and lack of trained and qualified logistics personnel, all of which have created port and traffic congestion issues, with negative impacts on time, cost and ease of doing business. Establishing a significant relationship between logistics performance and competitiveness, the study revealed that new trade-enabling policies and transport infrastructure with improved intermodal connectivity and link to hinterlands as well as improved and adequate facilities and equipment needs to be developed to help the country improve its trade facilitation. Specifically, the study found and recommends Lokoja to be the centre of gravity to site an alternative port in order to enhance Nigeria’s international trade competitiveness. The study also found that improved logistics performance will not only reduce inland travel time for cargo, lower transport, inventory and trading costs, but will also yield direct gain from time and cost saving, improve access to distant hinterland, improve productivity and local production, and increase foreign direct investment The study concludes that logistics determine international trade competitiveness to a large extent emphasizing that improved logistics performance has a high impact on trade facilitation and trade.