Evaluating Operational Challenges of Truck Tracking System in Dangote Cement Transport, Obajana, Nigeria.

Abstract

Trucks operation for cement distribution by Dangote Cement Transport (DCT), Obajana has from inception been facing challenges, some of which include: diversion of payload, unauthorized use of vehicles and violation of traffic rules. To address these challenges, the company engaged Nova-Track Technology Services for real-time tracking of her trucks in October 2014. Five years after, these challenges seems not to have abated, this study evaluate drivers’ perception and operational challenges in the operation of Truck Tracking System in DCT Obajana. Data were collected on drivers’ perception of the technology and the challenges faced by the operators. Stratified sampling method was used to administer 642 copies of questionnaire to Drivers, Fleet Officers and DCT Central Control Room Staff. The instrument was validated using Cronbach alpha reliability method with reliability coefficient of 83%. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Result shows that, while drivers are aware of the vehicle tracking device installed on their trucks, (M=2.94) they were however, not happy with the development (M=2.36).Furthermore, tampering with VTS device (M= 3.10), poor network (M= 2.91) and low battery life (M=2.66) were the dominant challenges facing the Company truck tracking system. The correlation coefficient result shows that low battery life and GPS lock (r=.216) exhibited the highest positive correlation, while poor network connectivity and poor weather condition (r=-.170) has the highest negative correlation. It was recommended that DCT drivers should be reoriented on the benefit of the system after which enforcement team should be instituted to ensure strict compliance.