Empirical Evaluation of Real-Time Production Monitoring Technologies at Medium-Scale Quarries in South South Nigeria

Real-time production monitoring technologies offer potential to improve efficiency, accountability, and royalty compliance at quarry operations, yet their adoption among medium-scale operators in South South Nigeria remains negligible. This study empirically evaluates the performance outcomes and adoption determinants of real-time production monitoring technologies at medium-scale quarry operations in Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River states. A controlled before-and-after study design was employed at six quarries that implemented weigh-in-motion systems and GPS-based fleet tracking over a 12-month period. Production data from monitored periods were compared against equivalent unmonitored baseline periods, measuring changes in truck cycle efficiency, daily production volume, fuel consumption per tonne, and royalty payment accuracy. Structured surveys and interviews with 18 quarry managers captured adoption experiences, barriers, and system performance ratings. Results indicate average production efficiency improvements of 22 percent and royalty reporting accuracy improvements of 31 percent in monitored operations relative to baseline. Fuel costs per tonne decline by an average of 14 percent due to reduced idle time. System maintenance costs and connectivity challenges in remote locations are identified as key adoption barriers. The study estimates a net financial benefit to business operations above technology costs within an average payback period of 14 months. Recommendations include a government-facilitated technology access programme and integration of fleet monitoring data into the national mining royalty reporting system. Keywords: production monitoring, quarry, technology adoption, South South Nigeria, fleet management.