By Chidi Ugwu
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) and Aero Contractors have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration in industry-led safety training and human capital development.
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Mrs Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, the NSIB Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance, in a statement, said the partnership aims to reinforce Nigeria’s commitment to global aviation safety standards.
Mrs Oladeji said the agreement provides for NSIB personnel to undergo specialized on-the-job training using Aero’s facilities, while Aero’s staff will receive training in accident investigation from NSIB, stressing that the MoU also includes joint conferences and workshops to share best practices and explore emerging trends in aviation.
Capt. Alex Badeh Jr. of NSIB and Capt. Ado Sanusi of Aero Contractors emphasized the importance of the reciprocal partnership in enhancing safety standards and promoting a culture of safety in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
The statement reads in part: “The agreement, signed today in Lagos in the presence of key industry stakeholders, establishes a framework for structured training programs, technical collaborations, and the sharing of resources between NSIB and Aero Contractors.
“The partnership will see NSIB’s Transportation Safety Officers and technical personnel undergo specialised on-the-job training using Aero’s state-of-the-art facilities, including simulators and maintenance workshops. In return, Aero’s technical personnel will benefit from NSIB-led training in accident investigation and related disciplines, creating a robust exchange of expertise.
“Capt. Alex Badeh Jr., Director-General of NSIB, described the MoU as a transformative step toward mutual growth and safety enhancement. “Today’s MoU is more than just a document; it is a commitment to mutual growth and safety enhancement. Through this agreement, we will work together to design and deliver customised on-the-job training programs for our Transportation Safety Officers and other staff. This initiative will equip our personnel with the skills, knowledge, and practical experience needed to excel in their duties, drawing on Aero’s state-of-the-art facilities, simulators, and technical resources,” he said.
“Capt. Badeh also emphasised the reciprocal nature of the partnership, noting that NSIB will support Aero’s technical personnel with training in accident investigation and related areas. “This two-way exchange of expertise will benefit both organisations and contribute to the overall safety of Nigeria’s airspace,” he added.
“The MoU also paves the way for joint conferences, symposiums, and workshops to share best practices, explore emerging trends in aviation, and build capacity across both workforces by deploying their respective facilities and staff, including pilots, engineers, dispatchers, and flight attendants. NSIB and Aero Contractors aim to strengthen their ability to prevent accidents, respond effectively to incidents, and uphold the highest safety standards in line with international benchmarks, such as the Standards and Recommended Practices of Annex 13 to the Chicago Convention.
“Mr. Ado Sanusi, Managing Director/CEO of Aero Contractors, emphasised the importance of the partnership, stating, “Safety is not just a regulatory requirement; it is the cornerstone of our industry. With over 60 years of experience in the aviation sector, Aero Contractors has cultivated a deep-rooted safety culture, and we firmly believe that Safety is everyone’s business. This MoU underscores our commitment to investing in the future of a safe Nigerian airspace by sharing our expertise, experience, and technical knowledge with NSIB.”
“Sanusi further highlighted the role of on-the-job training (OJT) in fostering continuous learning and professional development for NSIB personnel. “Through this partnership, we aim to equip NSIB’s Transportation Safety Officers with the practical skills and knowledge needed to excel in their duties, leveraging Aero’s state-of-the-art facilities, simulators, and technical resources.
“A Steering Committee, comprising representatives from NSIB and Aero Contractors, will oversee the implementation of the MoU. The agreement also outlines provisions for periodic reviews and amendments to ensure its continued relevance in addressing the dynamic challenges of aviation safety.
“An industry stakeholder and aviation safety advocate, Engr. Musa Adamu, Managing Director of Universal Aviation Group, welcomed the initiative, stating:
“This partnership is a model for how regulatory bodies and industry players should collaborate to enhance Safety. The aviation sector is highly complex, and training must evolve to keep pace with technological advancements and global best practices. NSIB and Aero Contractors are setting a precedent that should be emulated across other quarters of the transportation industry.”
“Both parties have also agreed to uphold the highest levels of confidentiality and professionalism throughout the partnership. Shared information will be used solely for safety investigation training, ensuring trust and integrity in the collaboration.
“With this agreement, NSIB and Aero Contractors reaffirm their shared vision of a safer, more resilient aviation sector. As the partnership takes flight, it promises to elevate the standard of aviation safety training, ensuring that Nigeria remains at the forefront of transportation safety excellence in the region”.
