In compliance with the International Civil Aviation Organization, ICAO annex 19, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo, inaugurated Nigeria’s National Executive Safety Committee (NESC) on April 23, 2024.
Keyamo emphasized the NESC’s crucial role in aviation safety, outlining responsibilities such as safety policy development and strategic oversight. The committee will monitor safety performance, assess risks, and address emerging safety challenges.
The NESC will prioritize safety improvements by allocating resources based on risk assessment, guiding the Safety Improvement Advisory Committee strategically. They’ll oversee SSP development, review safety policies, monitor performance against objectives, and identify emerging safety risks. The committee will ensure effective safety oversight, approve policy
changes, and handle escalated SIAC issues. They’ll also approve SIAC’s Terms of Reference for safety projects and demand periodic safety progress reports.
Capt. Chris Najomo, Director General of the Civil Aviation Authority, highlighted the benefits of implementing a robust SSP, enabling Nigeria to prioritize safety and optimize aviation resources effectively. He stressed the importance of systematic risk management.
Capt. Alex Badeh, Director General of NSIB, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve on the committee, pledging their commitment.
The NESC comprises key stakeholders, including the Director of Air Safety Administration, NSIB Director General, and heads of FAAN, NAMA, NIMET, NCAT, NCAA, NAF, and technical advisers. The SSP Coordinator will serve as the National Executive Safety Committee Secretary.