The Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development (FMAAD) has strongly advocated for the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) to remain under its purview, as the House of Representatives considers a proposed amendment to transfer the bureau to the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF).
Speaking on behalf of the minister, Mr. Festus Keyamo, the permanent secretary of the ministry, Dr. Ibrahim Kana, presented the ministry’s official stance during a one-day public hearing organised by the House Joint Committees on Aviation and Special Duties. The hearing was held at the National Assembly to deliberate on the Bill to Amend the NSIB Act No. 35 of 2022.
Kana emphasised that while the NSIB’s mandate covers multiple transport sectors (including aviation, maritime, rail and road) its technical foundation and institutional framework remain firmly rooted in aviation. He noted that the bureau was originally established in alignment with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) protocols, particularly Article 26.
He warned that removing the NSIB from the ministry could undermine both operational efficiency and regulatory integrity. According to him, keeping the bureau under the ministry would ensure access to sector-specific expertise, uphold international compliance, preserve its investigative independence and maintain prompt responses to safety issues due to streamlined communication.
“The existing structure already guarantees autonomy, with the president appointing principal officers in line with the law and ICAO standards. Moving the bureau could lead to politicisation, weakened accountability and disrupted policy coherence,” he said.
Kana reaffirmed the ministry’s readiness to work with all stakeholders in strengthening Nigeria’s transportation safety architecture in line with global best practices.
Chairman of the House Committee on Special Duties, Hon. Agbedi Frederick in his opening remarks, underscored the importance of the amendment process in improving NSIB’s capacity. He called for inclusive dialogue and described the hearing as an opportunity to build stronger safety mechanisms.
“This hearing is not just a legislative obligation but a vital opportunity for dialogue and progress. Your contributions will ensure that the amended Act reflects the collective commitment to a safer Nigeria,” Agbedi said.
The event drew high-level participants, including representatives of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajuddeen; Hon. Kwaamoti Laori; industry experts, civil society groups and the media. Participants presented various viewpoints and recommendations on the proposed amendment.
