Assessment of Ship Stability Parameters in Lagos Harbour: A Case Study of Commercial Vessels

Ship stability remains a critical concern for maritime safety, particularly in high-traffic port environments such as Lagos Harbour. This study assesses the stability parameters of commercial vessels operating within the harbour, focusing on metacentric height, centre of gravity, and buoyancy force relationships. The research adopts a descriptive survey design, combining direct measurement of vessel loading conditions with observational data collected from the Nigerian Ports Authority and selected shipping companies operating at Apapa Wharf. A sample of fifteen commercial cargo vessels was examined across a six-month period. Data were collected through structured observation schedules, vessel loading records, and interviews with certified marine officers. Findings indicate that a significant proportion of vessels operate with suboptimal stability margins due to irregular cargo distribution practices and inadequate pre-departure stability checks. The study identifies a gap between regulatory requirements and actual compliance among vessel operators, noting that many loading supervisors lack formal training in stability calculation. Recommendations include mandatory stability training for all deck officers and loading masters, installation of real-time stability monitoring systems aboard vessels operating in the harbour, and stricter enforcement of loading standards by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on port safety management in West African coastal environments and provides a baseline for future studies on vessel stability in Nigerian waterways. Keywords: ship stability, metacentric height, Lagos Harbour, cargo distribution, maritime safety