Vol. 8(10), pp. 308-319. June, 2021. 

ISSN: 2360-7858

https://doi.org/10.14662/ijalis2020275

 

Full Length Research

 

Abstract

Purpose The aimed of the study is to examine ICT use for enhanced port operations, being a strategic asset that could be properly harnessed for the benefits of maritime business. Port operations, considering the traffic of vessels and safety of cargoes requires that information and communication technology (ICT) be integrated to enhance port performance. Design/methodology/approach The study used the survey method to sample 40 Warri port staff drawn from a population of 50 through a total enumeration and purposive sampling techniques. Findings The study found that ICT facilities / infrastructure such as desktop computers, laptops, printers, scanners, networking, etc. are available and applied to some areas of the port. These were used in office operations at the Accounts, Audit, ICT, Communication and Media (Public Relations), Tariff and Billings Departments. ICT application has enhanced ports activities in accounting / auditing services such as preparing spreadsheet, reporting activities, communication and information transfer, searching of work related issues on the internet, etc., which was facilitated by the ICT skills possessed by staff. Some of the challenges faced are delayed container maintenance, delayed ship repair/maintenance, difficulty in tracking vessels, marine appraisals and not providing ICT training for staff after employment. Originality/value Ports help to enhance the economic activities of any nation. Warri Port management should engage in building staff capacity on the utilization and management of information systems for enhanced and efficient performance.

 

Keywords: Warri Ports, Delta Nigeria, ICT in ports, Maritime Transport, Shipping, Port Enhancement

 

	Cite This Article As: Iwhiwhu, B. E (2020). Enhancing Warri Port Operations in Nigeria: Information and Communication Technology as an Enabler. Inter. J. Acad. Lib. Info. Sci. 8(10): 308-319