Assessment of Ship Management Practices and Their Effect on Vessel Performance in Coastal Nigerian Shipping

Ship management encompasses the technical, crewing, and commercial functions that determine the operational efficiency and safety performance of commercial vessels. This study assesses ship management practices among coastal shipping companies operating fleets of five or more vessels between Nigerian ports and evaluates their association with vessel performance outcomes. A professional survey methodology was adopted, using structured interviews with ship management directors and superintendents at ten coastal shipping companies, supplemented by analysis of vessel performance data including dry-docking intervals, port state control deficiency records, and cargo delivery reliability statistics. The study applies the ISM Code as the primary framework for evaluating management system quality. Findings indicate that companies operating under certified safety management systems consistently outperform non-certified operators on all measured performance indicators, including fewer machinery breakdowns, lower PSC deficiency rates, and higher schedule reliability. The study identifies a significant quality gap between the formal documentation of safety management systems and their actual shipboard implementation, particularly in smaller companies where resources limit the effectiveness of internal auditing. Training investment per seafarer is found to be significantly lower in non-certified companies. Recommendations include mandatory ISM Code certification for all coastal shipping companies operating more than three vessels, subsidised safety management system implementation support for smaller operators, and an ISM mentorship programme pairing large certified operators with smaller companies. Keywords: ship management, ISM Code, vessel performance, coastal shipping, safety management system