Evaluation of Spatial Adequacy Benchmark in Sustainable Maritime Operations in Nigeria

Abstract

Spatial adequacy benchmarks constitute a critical foundation for sustainable maritime operations, as they ensure efficient utilization of maritime spaces, enhance safety, and promote environmental and operational sustainability. This study evaluate spatial adequacy benchmark in sustainable maritime operations in Nigeria. Five objectives and five research questions were formulated and answered respectively in this study. Data was generated from 312 respondents, comprising of port managers, marine engineers, maritime safety officers, terminal operators, shipping company personnel, port planners, logistics and supply chain managers and maritime regulatory officials using researchers’ developed questionnaire titled "Spatial Adequacy Benchmark and Sustainable Maritime Operations Questionnaire (SABSMOQ)." Using descriptive statistics to analyze the data generated for the study, the researchers found out that berth length and occupancy rate, navigational channel width and depth, terminal storage yard capacity, vessel maneuvering and turning basin spaces, and intermodal access corridors with logistics support spaces are widely applied in assessing the adequacy of maritime infrastructure and ensuring efficient and sustainable maritime operations. Again, berthing facilities, navigational channels, storage areas, logistics spaces, and supporting infrastructure generally provide adequate capacity for maritime operations. Findings also revealed that spatial adequacy has a significant positive effect on environmental sustainability in maritime operations. Also, the study show that the attainment of spatial adequacy in maritime operations in Nigeria is hindered by inadequate investment in port infrastructure expansion, increasing cargo and vessel traffic, poor implementation of maritime spatial planning policies, limited waterfront land availability and urbanization pressures, as well as bureaucratic and regulatory inefficiencies. Finally, the key measures that can be adopted to improve spatial adequacy benchmarks for sustainable maritime operations in Nigeria include increased investment in port infrastructure expansion and modernization. Based on the findings of this study, the researchers concluded spatial adequacy remains a fundamental prerequisite for achieving operational efficiency, environmental sustainability, and safety in maritime operations, while inadequate spatial provision poses a significant threat to the long-term sustainability of Nigeria's maritime sector. Consequently, the researchers recommended for increased investment in maritime infrastructure, strengthening spatial planning policies, as well as expansion of port and logistics facilities.