Assessment of Oil Spill Response Preparedness of Vessel Operators in the Bight of Benin

The Bight of Benin represents a strategically significant and environmentally sensitive maritime zone where shipping activity intersects with artisanal fishing and coastal livelihoods. This study assesses the oil spill response preparedness of vessel operators, including tanker companies and offshore supply firms, operating in the Nigerian section of the Bight of Benin. A descriptive survey design was adopted, using structured questionnaires administered to sixty vessel operators, safety officers, and maritime environment officers, combined with review of shipboard oil pollution emergency plans and spill response equipment inventories. The study benchmarks findings against the requirements of the International Convention on Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Cooperation. Findings indicate that the majority of sampled tanker operators have certified shipboard oil pollution emergency plans in place, while smaller offshore supply vessel operators demonstrate significantly lower preparedness levels. Onboard oil spill response equipment, including oil booms, skimmers, and dispersants, is absent or expired on several non-tanker vessels. Crew familiarity with emergency response procedures is inversely correlated with vessel size, with ratings on smaller vessels demonstrating the least awareness. Recommendations include mandatory oil spill response training for all vessel crew regardless of vessel type, periodic government-coordinated oil spill response drills in the Bight of Benin, and strengthened inter-agency cooperation between NOSDRA, NIMASA, and vessel operators. Keywords: oil spill response, Bight of Benin, SOPEP, vessel preparedness, marine pollution