NSIB DG canvasses improved funding, collaboration to enhance investigation

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has emphasised the need for prompt remittance of levies from other agencies to support government funding, enabling the Bureau to effectively prevent accidents in all transportation sectors.

According to NSIB Director General, Capt. Alex Badeh Jnr., the Bureau’s expanded role in investigating air, rail, and maritime accidents requires increased funding and cooperation from relevant sectors.

The NSIB DG made this known during a virtual media chat, where he highlighted the importance of collaboration, stating that the NSIB is working with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) to streamline the investigation process for maritime accidents.

He noted that the Bureau would prefer to acquire its own equipment but is limited by funds. “We are planning to procure equipment but to get the money, we are working on it. We can’t depend on aviation alone.”

Badeh Jnr. lamented the bureaucracy impeding the flow of information among agencies, citing a lack of communication between NIMASA and NSIB.

He emphasised the need for cooperation, stating: “We work for Nigeria, we should work together.” The NSIB DG also disclosed that the Bureau is working to address personnel shortages, with plans to second personnel from NIWA and NIMASA and train them.

The NSIB czar expressed the need for increased funding, stating that accident investigation agencies worldwide typically have a standing budget. “Typically, all over the world, accident investigation agencies are not left to do cost recovery from regulators; there is usually a standing budget.”

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There should be no question because we are here to prevent accidents, and when they happen, we should be able to go out with full force to prevent reoccurrence.” The NSIB DG noted that the Bureau would explore all options, including seeking more funding from the Federal Government.

The NSIB is now fully empowered by law to carry out accident investigations in all transportation sectors, and the Bureau is poised to make a significant impact on safety in Nigeria. With cooperation and adequate funding, the NSIB can effectively investigate accidents and work towards preventing them.