The Technical Adviser to the Director General (DG)/Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), Capt. Martins Avaan has asserted that the marine casualty investigation regulations are essential for addressing the alarming frequency of vessel accidents on Nigeria’s waterways and oceans.
The NSIB Act 2022 mandates the Bureau to investigate accidents across all modes of transportation, including air, marine, rail, and others. As part of efforts to enhance maritime safety, therefore, NSIB, has initiated a significant overhaul of its marine casualty investigation structures.
Capt. Alex Badeh Jr., who initiated this pioneer work, has set up a five-man committee chaired by Engr. Abdullahi Babanya, Director of Transport Investigations (DTI), NSIB, and tasked with drafting the comprehensive regulations.
According to Capt. Avaan, “This pivotal step aims to stem the tide of disasters and promote safer navigation in both inland and coastal waters.”
“With the right legal structures and procedures in place, investigations can be conducted thoroughly, allowing for lessons learned and recommendations to be implemented,” Capt. Avaan went on.
He explained, “The regulations will not only enhance the investigative processes but also foster a culture of safety within the maritime sector.” He added: “By ensuring that investigations are carried out with the highest standards of professionalism and transparency, the NSIB aims to boost public confidence in the nation’s maritime safety protocols.
The regulations align with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Casualty Investigation Code and seek to address the unique challenges of investigating incidents on Nigeria’s inland waterways and oceans.
TNT understands that this holistic approach underscores the importance of safety in Nigeria’s transportation sector, particularly as the nation grapples with frequent maritime accidents that pose risks to both human lives and economic stability.
By incorporating local knowledge and experiences, the NSIB is better positioned to address the specific needs of the Nigerian maritime sector, Capt. Avaan reckons that the community-centred approach is vital for fostering collaboration and ensuring that all voices are heard in the quest for safer waterways.
With a clear commitment to aligning with international standards and overcoming local challenges during investigations, the Bureau, led by Badeh Jr., is poised to lead the way in transforming the maritime safety landscape, Capt Avaan noted.
Over the past six months, the committee Capt. Badeh Jr. constituted has engaged in an exhaustive process of drafting regulations, which includes visits to harbours and jetties, extensive consultations, and deliberations with industry stakeholders.
