Drivers and Barriers to Sustainable Supply Chain Management in Nigeria's Logistics Sector: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

: This study critically evaluates the drivers and barriers influencing sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) adoption in Nigeria’s logistics sector and examines how implementation varies across sectoral and geographical contexts. Guided by Stakeh older Theory and the Triple Bottom Line framework, the study adopted an interpretivist qualitative case-study design. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 purposively selected supply-chain professionals and managers involved in sustainability-related decisions in Nigerian logistics firms, and the data were analysed using thematic analysis. The findings identified four principal drivers of SSCM adoption: customer and international-client pressure, regulatory and certification requirements, operational efficiency and cost savings, and competitive and reputational advantage. However, implementation was constrained by high initial investment costs, limited access to finance, inadequate in-house sustainability expertise, resistance to organisational change, cost-focused industry norms and weak regulatory enforcement. The study also revealed uneven adoption across contexts. Urban and export-oriented firms benefited from better infrastructure, closer links to global markets and stronger sustainability pressure, whereas rural operations faced higher structural costs, weaker infrastructure and fewer enabling conditions. Overall, SSCM adoption was strongest where stakeholder pressure, a credible business case and organisational capability were supported by an enabling institutional and infrastructural environment. The study recommends phased implementation, targeted capacity building, collaborative investment, improved access to green finance and stronger regulatory incentives to accelerate sustainable logistics practices in Nigeria.