FMMBE and NSIB Collaborate to Enhance Waterways Safety

The Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy (FMMBE) and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) have initiated discussions to strengthen inter-agency collaboration aimed at enhancing safety on Nigeria's waterways. The Permanent Secretary of FMMBE, Mrs. Fatima Sugra Tabi’a Mahmood, welcomed a delegation led by NSIB's Director-General, Capt. Alex Badeh Jnr., in Abuja.

Mrs. Mahmood emphasized the importance of clarifying the Bureau's mandate and fostering effective collaboration among relevant institutions. She noted that a holistic review of the marine and blue economy ecosystem is underway to ensure institutions fulfill their mandates effectively.

Capt. Badeh called for the integration of independent marine casualty investigations into national maritime policy reforms to prevent operational overlaps among agencies. He expressed concerns regarding delays in casualty reporting and the loss of crucial evidence before investigations.

The NSIB proposed establishing a framework to address these operational challenges and improve safety across Nigeria's extensive navigable waterways.