Nigeria Concludes Investigations into Five Air Accidents: Safety Lapses and Lessons Unveiled
The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), has concluded its investigations into five air accidents and incidents that occurred in 2024, unveiling a spectrum of safety lapses across the aviation sector.
The comprehensive reports based on findings released throughout the year, detailed mishaps involving airlines and operators such as the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Caverton Helicopters Limited, Aero Contractors Company, SAHCO PLC, and Air Peace Limited.
Key Findings Highlight Persistent Issues
The NSIB’s findings revealed that human error, insufficient training, and lapses in compliance with standard operating procedures were significant contributing factors to these incidents. The bureau underscored that its investigations were not to assign blame but to enhance aviation safety and align with international standards, as mandated by Annex 13 to the Convention on International Civil Aviation.
One case involved a Tampico TB–9 aircraft operated by NCAT, where a student pilot on their first solo flight skidded off the runway during landing. According to the report:
“The decision of the Student Pilot to vacate the active runway at excessive speed was the causal factor,” adding that inadequate supervision and overgrown shrubs along the taxiway also played a role.
Another notable incident was the crash of a Caverton AgustaWestland AW139 helicopter in Kogi State, which occurred under a brownout condition during landing. The NSIB concluded:
“The flight crew encountered a brownout condition, leading to loss of external visual references and situational awareness.”
Additional incidents included a baggage loader vehicle colliding with an Aero Contractors aircraft in 2014 and a SAHCO lavatory service truck hitting a Max Air Limited aircraft in 2021. Both were attributed to operator errors, including untrained drivers and failure to follow safety protocols.
An Air Peace Limited aircraft experienced a hydraulic system failure in January 2021, underscoring concerns about maintenance practices and operational decision-making.
Safety Recommendations to Address Systemic Weaknesses
The NSIB report issued a series of safety recommendations aimed at addressing these systemic challenges. Among them were:
Aviation schools must conduct thorough assessments before permitting solo flights for student pilots.
Ground handling operators must ensure adequate staffing for simultaneous operations and adhere strictly to operational manuals.
Enhanced training for aviation personnel to mitigate human error and improve situational awareness.
The bureau also called for increased oversight of ramp operations to prevent collisions and other ground-based incidents.
Significant Investment in Accident Investigations
According to a report from BudgIT’s GovSpend platform, the NSIB spent ₦500 million in 2024 on transportation accident investigations, underscoring the government’s commitment to safety improvements. The funds were allocated in line with the NSIB Establishment Act of 2022.
A Call to Action for Stakeholders
The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to improving aviation safety and urged all stakeholders to promptly implement the NSIB’s recommendations. These reforms, it emphasised, are vital to preventing future incidents and aligning Nigeria’s aviation sector with global safety standards.
While progress has been made, the findings highlight the persistent challenges in ensuring operational safety and the need for continued vigilance in one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets.
