The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau and the Sierra Leone Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation Bureau have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to deepen cooperation in joint investigations, data sharing and capacity building, in a move aimed at strengthening aviation safety across West Africa.

The agreement, signed at the NSIB headquarters recently, was contained in a statement made available to The PUNCH on Tuesday. According to the statement, at the heart of the MoU is a commitment to conduct joint investigations, exchange technical expertise and support each other in improving safety outcomes within their respective jurisdictions.

Under the arrangement, both agencies 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 standards.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Director-General of NSIB, Alex Badeh Jr, described the agreement as a strategic step towards strengthening investigative capacity in the region.

He said, “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 emphasised that collaboration among investigators would significantly improve the quality and speed of accident investigations: “When investigators share knowledge, tools and experience, response time improves, findings become more precise and the focus remains on preventing future occurrences. That is what this partnership is designed to achieve.”

The NSIB boss added that the agreement reinforces both organisations’ commitment to the standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation, particularly the provisions of Annex 13 of the Chicago Convention on International Civil Aviation.

A key component of the partnership is the development of human capacity, with provisions for the exchange of investigators to participate in specialised training programmes and observe live investigations.

Beyond training, the MoU allows for the deployment of expert teams, including flight recorder specialists and forensic personnel, to support investigations carried out by either party. Such support will be provided at no cost, with the requesting country responsible for logistics, including travel and accommodation.

Also speaking, the Commissioner of the Sierra Leone Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation Bureau, Olubunmi Wellington, described the agreement as a milestone for aviation safety in the sub-region.

He noted, “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.

“Through our engagement with NSIB, our investigators will gain access to advanced training, improved investigative methods and the shared experience of a leading safety investigation authority in the region.”

The agreement also aligns with ongoing collaboration among accident investigation authorities within the Banjul Accord Group, where member states continue to support one another in air accident investigations.