Presidency plans new funding model for NSIB

The Nigerian government is considering a new funding model to bolster the Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) in conducting accident investigations nationwide. This move comes after several transport and maritime agencies failed to remit their mandated 3% of revenues to the NSIB for supporting accident investigations in their respective domains.

NSIB Director-General, Capt. Alex Badeh Jnr, revealed during a virtual press conference that the funding shortfall has significantly impacted the bureau's operations, limiting its ability to conduct essential training and procure necessary equipment. One critical tool missing is a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) crucial for maritime accident investigations, particularly those involving sunken vessels.

Badeh emphasized that an ROV would enable divers to clearly observe underwater environments, aiding investigators in evidence retrieval and, where possible, the recovery of bodies from accident sites. He expressed optimism that the President's intervention would address the funding challenges soon. The NSIB, now reporting directly to the Presidency through the Office of the National Security Advisor, has been detached from the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development.

Its mandate has broadened to encompass all modes of transportation, including rail and maritime incidents, necessitating increased funding, specialized equipment, technical expertise, and a larger team of investigators. Despite the budget constraints, the NSIB is currently managing seven significant accident and serious-incident investigations across aviation, rail, and maritime sectors.

Additionally, the bureau has prepared four maritime accident reports for release, pending stakeholder comments. These reports pertain to incidents from 2024 and 2025. Badeh highlighted that the NSIB has strengthened its maritime investigation capabilities by recruiting specialized maritime investigators and deploying them alongside existing aviation personnel.

The bureau is also collaborating with the National Roads Safety Commission (NRC) and rail consultants to enhance its capacity for rail accident investigations. Currently, NSIB employs approximately 407 personnel, but Badeh stressed the need for more specialized staff rather than an indiscriminate increase in workforce. He emphasized the importance of hiring individuals with the requisite technical skills to ensure the bureau's effectiveness.