Ondo aircraft crash: Keyamo, air chief agree on safety collaboration

The tragic Nigerian Air Force aircraft incident at Igbokoda has prompted a renewed emphasis on enhanced collaboration between Nigeria's civil and military aviation authorities, with Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, agreeing to strengthen knowledge sharing and safety cooperation.

The agreement was reached after Keyamo visited Aneke following the crash, signing the condolence register and meeting privately before addressing journalists on plans to bolster cooperation between the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and the Nigerian Air Force. Keyamo expressed condolences to the Air Force, praising the bravery and sacrifice of personnel, emphasizing that accidents do not differentiate between civil and military aviation sectors.

He noted the Air Force already utilizes civilian infrastructure, such as air traffic control, making closer collaboration a logical next step. Keyamo stated that a joint committee would be established to promote cooperation in airworthiness, certification, training, and other safety aspects, respecting both institutions' responsibilities.

Aneke thanked Keyamo for the condolence visit and support, highlighting discussions about enabling civil aviation professionals to assist the Air Force in areas like airworthiness and certification, while military personnel could share their expertise with the civil sector. Both leaders stressed the shared responsibility to protect Nigerians, regardless of their aviation roles, aiming to elevate the aviation industry as a unified effort.