Nigeria, Sierra Leone sign MoU on aircraft accident investigation

From Abdullateef Aliyu, Lagos The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) and the Sierra Leone Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation Bureau (SL-AAIIB) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in aircraft accident investigation, data sharing, and capacity development. The agreement, signed at the NSIB headquarters in Abuja, establishes a structured framework for collaboration […]

From Abdullateef Aliyu, Lagos

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) and the Sierra Leone Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation Bureau (SL-AAIIB) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in aircraft accident investigation, data sharing, and capacity development.

The agreement, signed at the NSIB headquarters in Abuja, establishes a structured framework for collaboration between both institutions, enabling joint investigations, exchange of expertise, and coordinated efforts to enhance aviation safety across their jurisdictions.

Under the terms of the MoU, both organisations will engage in training programmes, secondment of investigators, and the sharing of safety data and technical knowledge. The partnership also covers flight recorder analysis, access to investigative equipment, and participation in each other’s investigations as accredited representatives, in line with global aviation standards.

 

Director-General of NSIB, Alex Badeh Jr, said the agreement underscores a shared commitment to strengthening investigative capacity and improving safety outcomes in the region.

 

“This partnership reflects our collective commitment to maintaining high standards in aviation safety investigation across West Africa. It creates a clear pathway for deeper cooperation between Nigeria and Sierra Leone, strengthening the systems of both institutions,” he said.

 

Badeh noted that collaboration among investigators enhances response time, improves the accuracy of findings, and ultimately helps prevent future occurrences.

 

He added that the agreement aligns with the Standards and Recommended Practices of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), particularly Annex 13 of the Chicago Convention on International Civil Aviation, which governs aircraft accident and incident investigations.

 

A key component of the MoU is its focus on human capacity development. It provides for the exchange of investigators for specialised training and participation in live investigations, enabling personnel from both bureaus to deepen their technical expertise and understanding of investigative procedures.

 

The agreement also allows for the deployment of expert teams—including flight recorder specialists and forensic personnel—to support investigations conducted by either party. While such technical assistance will be provided at no cost, the requesting party will bear expenses related to travel, logistics, and accommodation.

 

Commissioner of SL-AAIIB, Olubunmi Wellington, described the partnership as a significant step toward strengthening aviation safety systems in West Africa.

 

“This partnership presents a strong opportunity for SL-AAIIB and the wider West African aviation community to build more effective investigative systems through structured collaboration,” he said, noting that the agreement would provide access to advanced training and improved investigative methodologies.

 

Both organisations reaffirmed their commitment to the principle outlined in Annex 13 of the Chicago Convention—that the primary objective of accident and incident investigations is the prevention of future occurrences, rather than the apportionment of blame or liability.

 

The MoU also reflects the broader commitment of accident investigation authorities within the Banjul Accord Group (BAG) to support one another in strengthening aviation safety across the region.

 

With aviation activity on the rise across West Africa, both agencies said the partnership would enhance their ability to respond effectively to accidents and serious incidents, conduct thorough investigations, and implement safety recommendations that contribute to safer skies.