Road Infrastructure Quality and Logistics Performance in Agricultural Commodity Distribution in Sokoto State

This research explores the impact of road infrastructure quality on logistics performance in agricultural commodity distribution in Sokoto State, North West Nigeria. Sokoto is a significant producer of livestock, cowpea, and gum arabic, with distribution networks extending across the North West and into neighbouring West African countries. However, the state's rural road network suffers from poor maintenance, seasonal flooding damage, and inadequate feeder road coverage, all of which severely compromise the reliability and cost efficiency of commodity movement. A descriptive survey design is used, with structured questionnaires administered to 130 commodity traders, truck drivers, and logistics coordinators operating in the Sokoto Central Market and Gwadabawa distribution nodes. The study measures road quality using trader and transporter perceptions of road surface condition, passability during rainy seasons, and average trip duration across selected corridors. Logistics performance is assessed through delivery timeliness, vehicle operating costs per trip, and commodity loss rates during transit. Descriptive statistics and correlation analysis are employed. The study draws on recent transport economics and agricultural logistics literature focused on sub-Saharan Africa. Findings are expected to establish strong correlations between poor road quality and elevated logistics costs, reinforcing the case for targeted road investment as a supply chain competitiveness strategy. Recommendations are addressed to the Sokoto State Government, the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency, and donor-funded rural infrastructure programmes. Keywords: road infrastructure, logistics performance, agricultural distribution, Sokoto State, commodity supply chain.