Safety And Excellence In Aviation: NSIB And Aero Contractors Signs MoU

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) and Aero Contractors have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration in industry-led safety training, knowledge exchange, and human capital development that will reinforce Nigeria’s commitment to upholding global aviation safety standards.

The agreement, signed today in Lagos State, Southwest Nigeria, 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 MoU was contained in a Press Statement made available to Journalist by Mrs. Bimbo Oladeji, Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance,
Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau.

The partnership will see NSIB’s Transportation Safety Officers and technical personnel undergo specialized 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.

The Director-General of the Agency Captain Alex Badeh Jr., 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 customized 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,” Captain Badeh said.

He emphasised on 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 organizations and contribute to the overall safety of Nigeria’s airspace,” Captain Badeh 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.”

In his response, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Aero Contractors, Captain Ado Sanusi, emphasized the importance of the partnership, stating that “Safety is not just a regulatory requirement; it is the cornerstone of the 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 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,”

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, Engineer Musa Adamu, the Managing Director of Universal Aviation Group, welcomed the initiative, stating that the 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.” Engineer Adamu added.

Olusola Akintonde