Factors Influencing the Adoption of Telematics Systems by Commercial Road Transport Operators in South West Nigeria

Telematics systems, encompassing GPS tracking, driver behaviour monitoring, and electronic logging devices, have potential to significantly improve the safety, efficiency, and accountability of commercial road transport operations. This study investigates the factors influencing the adoption of telematics systems among commercial road transport operators in South West Nigeria, focusing on the Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo state operating environments. A technology acceptance model extended with cost perception and regulatory pressure dimensions is applied to a sample of 180 operators from bus, trucking, and logistics sectors, using structural equation modelling. Variables examined include perceived usefulness, ease of use, technology cost, operator size, regulatory pressure, peer influence, and access to financing. Path analysis results show that perceived usefulness and regulatory pressure are the strongest predictors of adoption intent, while cost remains the dominant barrier for small operators. Peer influence operates through social norm channels, with operators embedded in well-networked transport associations showing higher adoption rates. The study identifies a technology adoption gap in the Nigerian transport safety literature, as prior research has focused on technology design rather than adoption behaviour. Results challenge the assumption that awareness alone drives adoption and demonstrate the importance of cost subsidy mechanisms and regulatory mandates. Recommendations include a telematics adoption incentive fund for small operators, mandatory telematics requirements for newly licensed commercial vehicles, and transport association-led technology peer programmes. Keywords: telematics adoption, commercial transport, technology acceptance model, South West Nigeria, road safety technology.