By Chidi Ugwu
Nigeria’s Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) and Sierra Leone’s Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation Bureau (SL-AAIB) signed a bilateral memorandum of understanding (MoU) on Thursday to enhance aircraft accident investigations and safety data sharing.
The agreement, inked at NSIB headquarters in Abuja, establishes a framework for joint probes, expertise exchange, and mutual support in line with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards in Annex 13 of the Chicago Convention.
Key provisions include: “Joint training programs and investigator secondments;Sharing of safety data, technical knowledge, and flight recorder analysis; Free access to investigative equipment and participation as accredited representatives; and Deployment of expert teams, with the requesting party covering travel and accommodation costs.
NSIB Director General Captain Alex Badeh Jr. hailed the pact as a boost to West African aviation safety. “This creates a clear pathway for deeper cooperation, improving response times, precision in findings, and prevention of future incidents,” he said.
SL-AAIB Commissioner Engr. Olubunmi Wellington called it a “significant step” for building effective investigative systems through advanced training and shared expertise.
The MoU emphasizes prevention over blame, aligning with Banjul Accord Group (BAG) goals amid rising regional aviation activity. Both bureaus aim to strengthen capacity for thorough probes and safety recommendations.
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