Nigeria: New Director-General unveils transformative vision for NSIB

Nigeria: New Director-General unveils transformative vision for NSIB
Capt. Alex Badeh Jr. (left) taking over from Engr. Akin Olateru (right)

The new Director-General of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), Capt. Alex Badeh Jr. has outlined his vision to shift the focus of the agency from investigating tragedies to inspiring transformative advancements in transport safety.

In a ceremony held at the Bureau’s Head Office in Abuja, Badeh emphasised his commitment to proactive safety measures, stating, “We will harness the power of data, technology, and human ingenuity to build a future where every journey is undertaken with peace of mind.” 

Capt. Badeh outlined the key pillars of his administration, including a steadfast commitment to excellence, inter-agency collaboration, transparency, and accountability, along with a focus on safety awareness and education.

Under his leadership, Capt. Badeh said he envisions the NSIB becoming a partner, educator, and advocate for transport safety, engaging stakeholders from pilots and mechanics to policymakers and passengers. 

He expressed his ambition to transform Nigeria into a land where every journey is safe, and every landing is a celebration of progress.

“Under my watch, the NSIB will become a partner, educator, and advocate for transport safety. We will engage every stakeholder, from pilots in the cockpit to mechanics in the workshop, from policymakers in the Federal Capital Territory to passengers at the bus stations. 

“Together, we will transform Nigeria into a land where every journey is safe, every landing is a celebration, and where the only turbulence we encounter is the thrill of progress unfolding before us,” he said.

He, however, enjoined the NSIB team to support his vision through cooperation, hard work, expertise, commitment, passion and professionalism, which he said are the fuel that would make his vision for the Bureau a success.

He also called on every stakeholder and every Nigerian to support and cooperate with the Bureau on its journey to ensure transportation safety in the country.

Outgoing Director-General, Engr. Akin Olateru thanked the Almighty for his successful tenure, leaving the NSIB in an improved state. 

He reflected on the positive transformation of the organisation under his leadership, noting that the NSIB has moved from a place of punishment to being sought after by professionals from other agencies.

The new Director-General, Capt. Alex Badeh Jr., brings a wealth of experience to the role, having accumulated over 6000 flight hours as both Captain and First Officer. 

His international experience includes working with American Airline and American Eagle in the United States, where he piloted Airbus A320 and Bombardier CRJ aircraft. 

In Nigeria, he contributed significantly to safe air travel with Arik Air, Aero Contractors Nigeria Ltd., Emmanuel Aviation Nigeria Ltd., and a brief stint at the Presidential Air Fleet.

Capt. Badeh’s commitment to safety has earned him commendations, including the Minister’s Commendation for Safety and the Pilot Mentor Award from Aero Contractors Nigeria LTD. 

Beyond his professional endeavors, he advocates for diversity and inclusion in the aviation industry and actively supports initiatives addressing mental health in aviation professionals.

Tersoo Agber

Journalist, Travel enthusiast, PR consultant, Content manager/editor, Online publisher.