Table of Contents
Abstract. 2
CHAPTER ONE.. 5
INTRODUCTION.. 5
1.1 Background to the Study.. 5
1.2 Statement of the Problem... 6
1.3 Objectives of the Study.. 7
1.4 Research Questions. 7
1.5 Research Hypothesis. 8
1.6 Significance of the Study.. 8
1.7 Scope of the Study.. 9
1.8 Limitations of the Study.. 9
1.9 Organization of the Study.. 9
CHAPTER TWO.. 12
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE.. 12
2.1 Introduction.. 12
2.2 Theoretical Review.. 12
2.2.1 Economic Impact Theory. 12
2.2.2 Health and Safety Protocol Theory. 13
2.2.3 Technological Adaptation Theory. 13
2.2.4 Air Travel Behavior Theory. 14
2.3 Conceptual Review.. 15
2.4 Empirical Review.. 17
2.5 Summary of Literature Review.. 19
Chapter Three.. 20
Research Methodology.. 20
Introduction.. 20
Research Design.. 20
Population of the Study.. 20
Sample Size and Sampling Techniques. 21
Data Collection Instruments. 21
Validity and Reliability of the Instruments. 22
Data Collection Procedures. 22
Methods of Data Analysis. 23
Validity of the Instrument. 23
Reliability of the Instrument. 24
CHAPTER FOUR.. 26
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION.. 26
4.1 Preamble.. 26
4.2 Socio-Demographic Characteristics of Respondents. 26
4.3 Analysis of the Respondents’ Views on Research Question one:. 30
4.4 Testing Hypothesis. 45
Discussion of Findings. 46
Research Questionnaire: Influence of COVID-19 on Airport Activities in Nigeria 55
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic in late 2019 has led to unprecedented disruptions across various sectors worldwide, and the aviation industry stands as one of the hardest-hit domains. In Nigeria, the repercussions of the virus on airport activities have been profound, reshaping operational protocols, passenger flows, and industry dynamics. This essay delves into the multifaceted effects of COVID-19 on airports in Nigeria, exploring its implications on travel patterns, safety measures, economic viability, and regulatory frameworks.
Since the outbreak of the pandemic, Nigerian airports have witnessed a significant decline in passenger traffic and flight operations, primarily due to travel restrictions, lockdown measures, and health concerns. According to recent data (Jones et al., 2021), passenger numbers plummeted by over 60% compared to pre-pandemic levels, exerting immense pressure on airport infrastructure and revenue streams. Moreover, stringent health protocols, including mandatory testing and quarantine requirements, have reshaped passenger experiences and operational workflows, further complicating airport management and logistics (Ahmed et al., 2020).
The economic fallout from the pandemic has been profound, with Nigerian airports grappling with financial losses, reduced investments, and workforce layoffs (Oladipo & Olukunle, 2020). Airlines and airport operators have faced unprecedented challenges in sustaining operations amidst declining revenues and increased operational costs associated with health and safety measures. Additionally, the aviation industry's contribution to Nigeria's GDP has dwindled, exacerbating broader economic challenges exacerbated by the pandemic (Adewole, 2021).
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The COVID-19 pandemic has catalyzed unprecedented disruptions in global air travel, impacting airports in Nigeria significantly. As of June 2024, Nigerian airports continue to grapple with multifaceted challenges stemming from the pandemic, ranging from plummeting passenger traffic to operational complexities. Despite efforts to adapt to the evolving situation, the sector faces a myriad of uncertainties, necessitating a comprehensive examination of the problems encountered.
One of the primary issues confronting Nigerian airports is the drastic decline in passenger volumes since the onset of the pandemic. According to recent studies (Jones et al., 2021), passenger traffic has plummeted by over 60% compared to pre-pandemic levels, straining airport infrastructure and revenue streams. This dramatic reduction in passenger numbers has far-reaching implications, affecting airlines, airport operators, and associated service providers, thus posing a significant challenge to the sustainability of airport activities in Nigeria amidst the ongoing crisis.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine Influence of COVID 19 on airport activities in Nigeria. Specific objectives of the study are:
- To analyze the impact of COVID-19 on passenger traffic volume at Nigerian airports.
- To assess the changes in airport operations and security protocols implemented in response to COVID-19.
- To explore the economic consequences of COVID-19 on airport-related businesses in Nigeria.
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- How significantly did passenger traffic volume decline at Nigerian airports during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to pre-pandemic levels?
- What specific operational changes were introduced at Nigerian airports due to COVID-19?
- To what extent did revenue streams from airport shops, restaurants and car rentals decline as a result of the reduced passenger traffic during COVID-19?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: There is no significant influence of COVID-19 on airport activities in Nigeria.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Aviation sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analysed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organisations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to Nnamdi Azikiwe Int. Airport. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
