President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on the Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) to act swiftly in probing transportation accidents and ensure early release of reports to prevent similar incidents. Speaking through the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, at a stakeholders’ workshop in Abuja, Tinubu stressed that delays in investigations create anxiety for victims’ families and allow preventable dangers to persist.
He reminded the NSIB of its duty to begin investigations within seven days of serious incidents, collect and protect evidence, question witnesses promptly, and pinpoint causes without unnecessary delay. He urged the agency to follow global examples like the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board, which is known for timely reports that support immediate safety improvements.
According to the President, real safety improvements depend on turning investigation results into practical recommendations that are quickly implemented. He warned that ignoring past lessons often leads to repeated tragedies.
Minister Keyamo echoed this sentiment, urging ministries and agencies to incorporate NSIB recommendations into their policies, dedicate resources, and establish monitoring systems to ensure full implementation. He proposed the creation of inter-ministerial task forces to oversee and enforce safety measures.
Keyamo highlighted the aviation industry’s progress, noting that several NSIB suggestions—such as improved fatigue management and runway safety—have already led to tangible results. He encouraged the rail and maritime sectors to replicate these efforts.
The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening transport safety through cross-sector collaboration, better emergency protocols, and support for the NSIB through funding and training.
NSIB Director General, Captain Alex Badeh Jnr, said the workshop was designed to promote open dialogue and improve safety structures in aviation, maritime, and railway operations. He emphasized the importance of collaboration in today’s interconnected transport environment.
Badeh also disclosed that three major draft regulations were being reviewed: the Railway Accident Investigation Regulations, the Maritime Safety Investigation Regulations, and the updated Civil Aviation Accident Investigation Regulations. These are expected to align national procedures with international standards while addressing Nigeria’s unique transportation challenges.
