Reducing Operational Redundancies in Nigerian Airport Management Through Blockchain Technology

The Nigerian aviation sector faces persistent challenges of duplicated processes, fragmented communication systems, and inefficiencies in passenger, baggage, and administrative operations. These redundancies increase operational costs, compromise service delivery, and hinder compliance with international aviation standards. This study investigates how blockchain technology can be adopted to reduce such redundancies and enhance efficiency in Nigerian airport management. Guided by the Technology–Organization–Environment (TOE) framework, the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), and the Dynamic Capabilities Framework (DCF), the research employs a qualitative design based on 45 semi-structured interviews with stakeholders, including regulatory authorities, airport managers, airline officials, and aviation experts. Data were analyzed using Leximancer software to generate concept maps highlighting key themes such as data management, baggage handling, security, infrastructure, and transparency. Findings reveal that blockchain can provide a single source of truth, enable secure digital identity management, automate verification processes through smart contracts, and streamline documentation, thereby reducing redundancies across operational, administrative, and data domains. However, implementation faces technical and organizational challenges, including infrastructural limitations, resistance to change, and high initial costs. The study proposes a framework for blockchain adoption in Nigerian airports, emphasizing stakeholder engagement, system integration, and capacity building. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on blockchain applications in aviation management and provides practical insights for policymakers and airport administrators seeking to modernize the Nigerian aviation sector.