Study of the Effects of Seafarer Fatigue on Vessel Safety in Nigerian Coastal Trade

Seafarer fatigue is widely recognised as a contributing factor in maritime accidents globally, yet its specific manifestation and impact within the Nigerian coastal trade context remain inadequately documented. This study examines the prevalence of fatigue among seafarers operating on coastal trading vessels along the Nigerian coast and evaluates its relationship to vessel safety outcomes. A descriptive survey design was employed, using structured questionnaires administered to one hundred and ten seafarers recruited from vessels operating between Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Calabar. Data on work hours, rest patterns, sleep quality, and self-reported performance lapses were collected. Findings indicate that over sixty percent of respondents routinely work in excess of the maximum hours permitted under the Maritime Labour Convention, driven by crewing shortfalls and commercial pressure from vessel operators. Sleep disruption due to noise, heat, and watch scheduling was reported by the majority of respondents. Notably, seafarers on smaller coastal vessels, which are less subject to regulatory oversight, reported the most severe fatigue symptoms. The study establishes a statistically significant association between fatigue frequency and self-reported near-miss incidents. Recommendations include stricter enforcement of the Maritime Labour Convention rest hour provisions by NIMASA, use of fatigue risk management systems, and promotion of adequate crewing ratios on coastal vessels. Keywords: seafarer fatigue, coastal trade, Maritime Labour Convention, vessel safety, work hours