DIGITAL PLATFORM UTILIZZATION AND COMPETITIVENESS OF ADMINISTRATIVE PERFORMANCE OF STAFF IN OIL AND GAS COMPAINIES IN RIVERS STATE, NIGERIA.

Abstract

This study involved the effect of the use of digital platforms on the performance of administrative workers in oil and gas companies in Rivers State, Nigeria, while organizational support was used to moderate the relationship. The study specifically examined dimensions of digital platform use, which included the use of e-commerce platforms, integration of digital payment systems and digital trade communication systems, and dimensions of competitive performance, such as administrative efficiency, record accuracy, and cost effectiveness. The study follow a quantitative correlational research design with primary data obtained using structured questionnaire which was administered to administrative staff of selected oil and gas companies in Rivers State. 200 questionnaires were sent and 172 were returned and used for the analysis. Descriptive data analysis, Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient (PPMC) and multiple regression analysis were used to analyze the data using SPSS version 26.0. The results showed that the use of e-commerce platform was significantly positively correlated with administrative efficiency (r=.642, p=.001); digital payment integration had a significant positive correlation with record accuracy (r=.688, p=.000); and digital trade communication systems had a significant positive correlation with cost effectiveness (r=.731, p=.000). The study also found that the relationship between the use of digital platform and the performance of administrative staff was significantly moderated by organizational support (r=.604, p=.000). The study concluded that the use of digital platform has a significant positive impact on the competitive performance of administrative staff of oil and gas companies in Rivers State provided they are provided with necessary training, supervision and access to ICT. A number of recommendations were made by the study to the oil and gas companies with a view of improving efficiency in administration, ensuring that records are accurate and cost effective, including strengthening digital infrastructure, increase the training of staff, improve supervisory support and supply reliable ICT resources.