Keyamo inaugurates National Executive Safety Committee inline with ICAO’s Annex 19

Nigeria’s Minister for Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has inaugurated the National Executive Safety Committee (NESC).

This initiative, aligned with the safety standards set forth by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) annex 19, signals Nigeria’s commitment to ensuring the highest level of safety within its aviation sector.

Addressing the committee members in his office yesterday – April 23, 2024, Keyamo emphasised the role of the NESC in determining and mitigating safety risks inherent in the Nigerian aviation industry. 

He underscored the committee’s mandate to oversee the development, review, and policy-making processes pertaining to Nigeria’s State Safety Programme (SSP). 

Keyamo outlined the committee’s terms of reference, emphasising priorities such as strategic direction, safety policy formulation, risk assessment, and regulatory oversight.

Captain Chris Najomo, Director-General of the Civil Aviation Authority, highlighted the importance of implementing an effective SSP to enhance Nigeria’s safety performance. 

He noted that a robust safety programme would enable Nigeria to systematically address operational risks and improve the overall safety performance of aviation service providers.

Expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve on the committee, Captain Alex Badeh, Director-General of the NSIB, pledged the committee’s commitment to fulfilling its responsibilities diligently.

The NESC comprises key stakeholders from various aviation organisations, including the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, NSIB, FAAN, NAMA, NIMET, NCAT, NCAA, NAF, and other relevant entities. 

The committee will be chaired by Minister Keyamo, with the SSP Coordinator serving as the Secretary.

This initiative marks a significant step forward in Nigeria’s efforts to enhance aviation safety, positioning the country to effectively address emerging safety challenges and prioritise the well-being of passengers and aviation personnel.