The Senate has commenced a comprehensive investigation into Nigeria’s aviation sector to uncover the root causes of the increasing number of accidents and runway incidents across the country.
The decision followed a motion sponsored by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Aviation, Senator Abdulfatai Buhari (APC, Oyo North), during plenary on Wednesday.
The Senate mandated Buhari’s committee to engage all relevant stakeholders — including the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), and airline operators — and report back within six weeks.
Lawmakers also urged the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, in collaboration with FAAN, to immediately implement all safety recommendations contained in the NSIB report on the June 22, 2025 Air Peace runway overrun at the Port Harcourt International Airport.
The Upper Chamber further directed the NCAA to intensify compliance monitoring, conduct routine audits of airport facilities, and enforce strict adherence to international safety standards among operators.
In addition, FAAN was tasked to prioritize the rehabilitation of runways, install modern navigational aids, and provide airfield lighting — beginning with the Port Harcourt International Airport.
The Senate also renewed its call for the construction of a second runway at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, to enhance operational safety and ease pressure on the existing facility.
Presenting his motion, Senator Buhari expressed concern over the growing number of runway-related incidents in the country, noting that about seven near-mishaps have already been recorded in 2025 alone. He described the recent NSIB findings as alarming, revealing “critical gaps in safety standards, infrastructure management, and operational compliance.”
“Aviation safety is not negotiable,” Buhari stated. “The NSIB report exposes systemic failures that must be urgently addressed to safeguard passengers and restore confidence in our aviation system.”
He also decried reports that the Air Peace pilot involved in the Port Harcourt incident was intoxicated, warning that such lapses could endanger lives and damage Nigeria’s global aviation reputation.
The Senate commended the NSIB for its transparency in promptly releasing the investigative report, saying it reflects a growing culture of accountability and safety within the aviation industry.
The chamber’s resolutions aim to ensure full implementation of the NSIB’s recommendations and restore public trust in Nigeria’s air transport system.
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