By Nnasom David
The Director-General of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), Alex Badeh Jr., has said the agency’s relocation to the Presidency is aimed at eliminating political interference and strengthening the integrity of accident investigations.
Badeh disclosed this on Friday in Abuja during the unveiling of the Bureau’s new Staff Conditions of Service (CoS) at its headquarters.
The NSIB recently began reporting directly to the Presidency through the Office of the National Security Adviser, a shift from its previous structure under the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
According to Badeh, the restructuring grants the Bureau greater independence and authority to carry out its mandate as Nigeria’s sole multimodal accident investigation agency.
“The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has been repositioned to report directly to the Presidency.
This strategic restructuring has granted us enhanced independence, authority, and an invaluable platform to function effectively,” he said.
He explained that reporting through the National Security Adviser aligns with global best practices, given the sensitive nature of accident investigations.
“Our purpose is to find out the causes and circumstances surrounding an accident. In most cases, without proper backing, there is political interference, and investigators are not allowed to do their job professionally,” Badeh stated.
He added that the new reporting structure would ensure the security and credibility of investigation reports, unlike the previous arrangement where reports passed through ministerial channels.
“We have seen situations where someone will come and tell you to remove a certain aspect of a report, which makes the report inaccurate. That is not a good thing. But with the National Security Adviser, investigators are assured their reports will be secure,” he said.
Badeh also linked the newly launched Conditions of Service to the Federal Government’s reform agenda, noting that it prioritises staff welfare, professionalism, and accountability.
He said the CoS provides clear guidelines for appointments, promotions, training, and discipline, while also outlining welfare packages such as leave entitlements, medical services, allowances, and loan facilities.
“The document guarantees that hard work, integrity, and dedication will be acknowledged and rewarded. It also demands the highest standards of conduct and confidentiality required for our sensitive safety work,” he added.
The NSIB boss urged staff to study and adhere to the provisions of the new framework, describing it as a foundation for building a more efficient and globally competitive accident investigation agency.
He expressed confidence that the reforms would strengthen the Bureau’s capacity to deliver accurate, independent findings and ultimately enhance transport safety across the country.
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