Evaluating The Effect Of Operations Control Centre (OCC Functionality On The Operational Performance Of The Abuja Rail Mass Transit System, Nigeria

Abstract

The study investigated the influence of the Operations Control Centre (OCC) on the operational performance of the Abuja Rail Mass Transit System (ARMTS) in response to increasing urbanization and population growth in Abuja, which have intensified the demand for efficient public transportation services. The research assessed the extent to which key OCC functions, including Automatic Train Protection (ATP), Automatic Train Operation (ATO), and real-time operational data management, contribute to service effectiveness. A quantitative research approach was adopted, involving 243 respondents, while operational performance was measured using indicators such as train punctuality, service headway, and safety performance. The study also considered the moderating effect of track corridor cable vandalism on system operations. Findings from the regression analysis revealed that OCC functionality exerts a significant positive effect on the operational performance of ARMTS, explaining 37.5% of the variation in performance outcomes (R² = 0.375, F = 145.66, p < 0.001). The results further indicated that a one-unit improvement in OCC capability corresponds to a 0.524-unit increase in operational performance (β = 0.612). Descriptive statistics showed that the OCC performs strongly in areas such as train tracking data accuracy (M = 3.97, SD = 0.78) and responsiveness to operational incidents (M = 3.81, SD = 0.92). However, communication between control centre personnel and train operators was identified as a major operational weakness, recording the lowest mean score (M = 2.78, SD = 0.66). In addition, the study established that recurring incidents of cable vandalism along the rail corridor undermine the effectiveness of automated control technologies and disrupt service delivery. The study concludes that the technological and operational framework of the ARMTS OCC provides a solid foundation for achieving reliable rail transit operations. Nevertheless, the full benefits of the system are constrained by deficiencies in communication mechanisms and persistent security challenges affecting trackside infrastructure. To enhance operational efficiency and service reliability, the study recommends upgrading radio and telecommunication systems to strengthen coordination between OCC personnel and train operators. Furthermore, rail authorities should implement comprehensive security measures, including surveillance technologies and corridor protection strategies, to mitigate cable vandalism and safeguard critical railway infrastructure.