Nigeria and Sierra Leone have signed a bilateral agreement to strengthen aviation safety through joint aircraft accident investigations and the sharing of critical safety information.
The agreement, signed in Abuja, brings together the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) and the Sierra Leone Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation Bureau (SL-AAIB).
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) establishes a framework for collaboration, enabling both agencies to conduct joint investigations, exchange expertise, and support each other in improving aviation safety outcomes.
Director-General of NSIB, Alex Badeh Jr, said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to maintaining high standards in aviation safety investigations across West Africa.
According to him, the agreement will enhance cooperation between both countries, improve response times during investigations, and ensure more accurate findings aimed at preventing future occurrences.
Under the pact, both organisations will engage in training programmes, secondment of investigators, and the sharing of safety data and technical knowledge. The agreement also covers flight recorder analysis, access to investigative equipment, and participation in investigations as accredited representatives, in line with international standards.
Captain Badeh noted that the collaboration reinforces compliance with the Standards and Recommended Practices of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), particularly Annex 13 of the Chicago Convention on International Civil Aviation.
Commissioner of the Sierra Leone Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation Bureau, Engineer. Olubunmi Wellington,
described the agreement as a major step toward strengthening investigative capacity in the region.
He stated that the partnership would provide access to advanced training, improved investigative methods, and shared expertise, ultimately enhancing safety throughout West Africa.
Both agencies reaffirmed that the primary objective of accident investigations is to prevent future occurrences rather than assign blame.
The agreement also aligns with the broader goals of the Banjul Accord Group (BAG) to promote regional cooperation in air safety.