Buhari faults NSIB over inconsistent reports, seeks support for local airlines
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Aviation and representing Oyo North Senatorial District, Senator Abdulfatai Buhari, has criticised the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) for releasing what he described as inconsistent and poorly coordinated reports that could undermine public confidence in the nation’s aviation system.
Speaking at a one-day investigative hearing in Abuja on Thursday, Buhari warned that unverified and conflicting information from the NSIB could damage Nigeria’s reputation before international aviation regulators, including the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).
He referenced the July 13 Port Harcourt runway incident involving an Air Peace aircraft, noting that the airline’s plane sustained no damage and returned to Lagos the same day. Buhari described the NSIB’s preliminary report, which alleged that some crew members tested positive for alcohol and cannabis, as “disjointed and not coordinated.”
“You don’t accuse people wrongly, especially in aviation, where ICAO and other international regulators are closely monitoring us,” Buhari said. He stressed that accurate reporting and inter-agency coordination were vital to maintaining safety standards and protecting Nigeria’s global image.
The senator commended Air Peace and other local airlines for maintaining strict safety protocols, including random drug testing for pilots and crew. “We need to encourage and thank our local airlines. They have their own checks and balances and conduct random checks before allowing pilots to fly,” he added.
Buhari also disclosed that the Senate would soon consider legislation requiring government officials and agencies to patronise Nigerian airlines for official travel, saying the move would strengthen local operators and boost confidence in the domestic aviation sector.
He urged aviation regulators to work more closely to ensure clarity and transparency in their reports, warning that misleading statements could discourage investment and international cooperation.
The senator concluded by calling for a united approach among stakeholders to uphold Nigeria’s aviation safety reputation, ensure fair treatment of local airlines, and protect the integrity of the country’s aviation oversight system.
