IMPACT OF INVENTORY CONTROL ON OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY OF AN ORGANIZATION IN NIGERIA BOTTLING COMPANY MAIDUGURI PLANT.

ABSTRACTThis study examines the impact of inventory control on the operational efficiency of Nigeria Bottling Company (NBC), Maiduguri Plant. Inventory control is a critical function in manufacturing organizations, as it ensures the availability of raw materials, reduces wastage, minimizes stock-outs, and optimizes production flow. The research was motivated by the need to assess how effective inventory management practices influence productivity, cost reduction, and timely delivery of finished goods at the Maiduguri Plant.The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. Data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to staff in the production, stores, and logistics departments, complemented by interviews with key personnel. Secondary data were also obtained from company records. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis to determine the relationship between inventory control practices and operational efficiency.Findings revealed that proper inventory control measures such as Economic Order Quantity (EOQ), Just-In-Time (JIT), and periodic stock-taking significantly enhance operational efficiency by reducing production delays, lowering holding costs, and preventing stock obsolescence. However, challenges such as poor demand forecasting, inadequate storage facilities, and occasional supply chain disruptions in the Maiduguri region were found to limit full efficiency.