March 17, (THEWILL) – In a bid to enhance industry-led safety training, knowledge exchange, and human capital development, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Aero Contractors.
The partnership, formalised in Lagos on Monday, is expected to bolster Nigeria’s commitment to global aviation safety standards by fostering structured training programs, technical collaborations, and resource sharing between both entities.
According to a statement by the Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance, NSIB, Mrs. Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, the agreement will see NSIB’s Transportation Safety Officers and technical personnel undergo specialized on-the-job training using Aero’s advanced facilities, including simulators and maintenance workshops.
In return, Aero’s technical staff will benefit from NSIB-led training in accident investigation and other aviation safety disciplines.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, NSIB Director-General, Capt. Alex Badeh Jr., described the MoU as a transformative step in strengthening aviation safety in Nigeria.
“Today’s agreement is more than just a document; it is a commitment to mutual growth and safety enhancement. Through this partnership, we will develop customized training programs to equip our personnel with the skills and practical experience needed to excel in their duties, leveraging Aero’s cutting-edge facilities and technical expertise,” he stated.
Capt. Badeh also underscored the reciprocal nature of the collaboration, highlighting NSIB’s role in training Aero’s technical personnel in accident investigation and related fields.
“This two-way knowledge exchange will enhance both organisations’ capabilities and contribute to the overall safety of Nigeria’s airspace,” he added.
Beyond training, the MoU paves the way for joint conferences, symposiums, and workshops to share best practices, explore emerging trends, and build workforce capacity. The initiative aligns with international safety benchmarks, including the Standards and Recommended Practices of Annex 13 to the Chicago Convention.
Managing Director/CEO of Aero Contractors, Mr. Ado Sanusi, lauded the partnership, describing safety as the cornerstone of the aviation industry.
“With over 60 years of experience in the sector, Aero Contractors has developed a strong safety culture. We firmly believe that safety is everyone’s business, and this MoU reaffirms our commitment to investing in a safer Nigerian airspace by sharing our expertise and technical knowledge with NSIB,” Sanusi stated.
He further emphasized the critical role of on-the-job training (OJT) in professional development, adding that NSIB personnel would gain hands-on experience through Aero’s facilities and resources.
To ensure the effective implementation of the MoU, a Steering Committee comprising representatives from both organizations will oversee its execution, with provisions for periodic reviews to address evolving challenges in aviation safety.
Commenting on the development, industry stakeholder and aviation safety advocate, Engr. Musa Adamu, Managing Director of Universal Aviation Group, commended the initiative.
“This 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 keep pace with technological advancements and global best practices. NSIB and Aero Contractors are setting a precedent that should be emulated across other areas of the transportation industry,” he said.
Anthony Awunor, is a business correspondent who holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Linguistics (UNILAG). He is also an alumnus of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria Kaduna State. He lives in Lagos.
