Nigerian Senate Launches Safety Crackdown: Aviation Sector Under Microscope
Abuja (Core Reporters) The Nigerian Senate is taking bold steps to address the country’s aviation safety challenges. Following the Air Peace runway overrun incident at Port Harcourt International Airport in June, the Senate’s Committee on Aviation has been mandated to investigate the causes of frequent accidents and incidents on runways nationwide ¹.
These followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Senator Abdulfatai Buhari, on the need to strengthen aviation safety after the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) released its report on the June 22, 2025 Air Peace runway overrun at the Port Harcourt International Airport.
The Senate also considered construction of a second runway at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, to improve operational safety and reduce pressure on existing facilities
While no lives were lost in the incident, Buhari said the NSIB report exposed “critical gaps in safety standards, infrastructure management, and operational compliance,” warning that such lapses could endanger lives and erode public confidence in Nigeria’s aviation system
He expressed concern over the growing number of runway-related incidents, noting that about 7 near air-mishaps have been recorded this year alone. Buhari also decried the reported intoxication of the Air Peace pilot, while calling for immediate corrective measures.
“Aviation safety is not negotiable. The NSIB report shows systemic failures that must be addressed urgently to safeguard passengers and restore confidence in our airports,” Buhari said.
The investigation aims to identify systemic failures and implement corrective measures to safeguard passengers and restore public confidence in Nigeria’s aviation system. The Committee will engage with relevant agencies, including NSIB, NCAA, FAAN, and airline operators, and report back within six weeks.
This move underscores the Senate’s commitment to prioritizing aviation safety, a concern echoed by Senator Abdulfatai Buhari: “Aviation safety is not negotiable. The NSIB report shows systemic failures that must be addressed urgently”.
Will this investigation mark a turning point in Nigeria’s aviation safety record? Only time will tell, but one thing’s clear: the Senate is determined to act.
