The MoU aims to provide assistance to survivors of aircraft accidents and distressed aircraft, irrespective of their nationality.
In continuation of this initiative, Nigeria is set to sign a similar agreement with Togo and Chad today (Friday), followed by Cameroon in the near future.
Capt. Musa Nuhu, Director-General Civil Aviation, expressed satisfaction with the partnership, stating that it would significantly improve air safety operations in the region, particularly between Nigeria and Benin Republic.
He further mentioned that Nigeria intends to establish similar agreements with other neighboring African countries in the future.
He said, “Nigeria is keen on improving air safety in the West African region. Apart from the region, we also want to ensure that African airspace is safe at all times. We need to consistently improve our relationships on the continent, starting from the region.
“Nigeria also intends to sign the same aeronautical agreement on Search and Rescue with other neighbouring African countries.”
In response, Mr. Karl Legba, the Director-General of Agência Nacional de Aviação Civil (ANAC) in Benin Republic, commended the Nigerian Government for consistently assuming a leadership role in civil aviation across the region and the entire continent.
Furthermore, Nigeria is currently exploring the possibility of signing a bilateral technical agreement with South Africa.
The meeting between the Civil Aviation Authorities (CAAs) of both countries took place on the sidelines of the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) conference in Dakar, Senegal, where Directors-General of various African CAAs are convening.
