Investigation of Marine Traffic Management Challenges in Lagos Pilotage District

Effective marine traffic management is essential for the safe and efficient movement of vessels in congested pilotage districts. This study investigates the operational challenges confronting the Lagos Pilotage District, one of the busiest maritime traffic zones in West Africa. A descriptive survey design was adopted, with primary data collected through structured interviews with twenty-five licensed harbour pilots, port control officers, and vessel traffic service operators. Secondary data were sourced from Nigerian Ports Authority annual reports and vessel traffic records covering the period 2020 to 2024. The study identifies inadequate vessel traffic service infrastructure as a central challenge, noting that radar coverage gaps and outdated communication equipment periodically compromise situational awareness in the traffic separation scheme. The research further documents instances of vessel-to-vessel radio communication failures due to channel congestion and non-standardised English language use among some vessel crews. Pilot boarding delays during adverse weather conditions and insufficient pilot launch availability during peak traffic periods are identified as additional operational constraints. The study finds that the volume of vessel movements has increased by approximately thirty percent over the five-year study period without commensurate expansion of traffic management resources. Recommendations include urgent modernisation of the Lagos Vessel Traffic Service, increase in the pilotage corps, and introduction of mandatory VHF proficiency standards for vessels operating in the district. Keywords: marine traffic management, Lagos Pilotage District, vessel traffic service, harbour pilots, port safety