NSIB, Aero Contractors Sign MoU to Boost Aviation Safety, Training

Samuel Mobolaji

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) and Aero Contractors have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance aviation safety through structured training, technical collaboration, and knowledge exchange.

The agreement, signed on Monday, establishes a framework for industry-led safety training, resource sharing, and human capital development between both organisations.

It will see NSIB’s Transportation Safety Officers and technical personnel undergo specialised on-the-job training at 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, fostering a robust exchange of expertise.

Speaking to newsmen, the Director-General of NSIB described the MoU as a transformative step towards strengthening Nigeria’s aviation safety.

“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 programmes 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 exchange of expertise, he added, will benefit both organisations and contribute to the overall safety of Nigeria’s airspace.

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.

The Managing Director of Aero Contractors, Capt. Ado Sanusi, emphasised the importance of the partnership, stating that safety is not just a regulatory requirement but 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 a safe Nigerian airspace by sharing our expertise, experience, and technical knowledge with NSIB,” he said.

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,” he added.