The Director-General of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) and the Oyo State Government have entered into a pact committing to explore potential areas of collaboration in advancing transport safety measures and accident prevention strategies within the state.
NSIB’s Director-General, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., disclosed this on Sunday when his team paid a courtesy visit to the Governor of Oyo, Engr. Seyi Makinde, in Ibadan.
According to a statement by the NSIB’s Director in charge of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, the visit aimed to deepen relationships between the NSIB and the Oyo State Government.
During the meeting, Captain Alex Badeh Jr. expressed his appreciation for Governor Makinde’s leadership and commitment to infrastructure development in Oyo State, noting the importance of incorporating robust safety protocols across all sectors, including transportation and other industries that require stringent safety oversight.
He briefed Governor Makinde on NSIB’s mission and key accomplishments in recent years, emphasising the bureau’s dedication to improving safety outcomes through thorough investigations of incidents and accidents, transport safety recommendations, and proactive engagement with stakeholders.
“We are here today to express our admiration for your visionary leadership and to explore how we can work together to promote a culture of transport safety in Oyo State.
“NSIB is committed to ensuring that safety remains at the forefront of every development initiative, and we believe that by working with state governments, we can create safer environments across Nigeria,” Captain Badeh remarked.
Governor Seyi Makinde, in response, welcomed the DG and his team, applauding NSIB’s role in enhancing transport safety in Nigeria and expressing his eagerness to explore areas where the Oyo State Government could benefit from the bureau’s expertise, particularly in sectors involving transportation and public safety.
“Your work is critical in ensuring that we learn from past accidents and prevent future occurrences, and I am pleased to see your proactive approach in reaching out to stakeholders at all levels,” Governor Makinde stated.
The Governor further highlighted his administration’s commitment to infrastructural development and improving safety standards in the state.
He also emphasised the importance of cooperation between federal agencies and state governments in achieving lasting progress in safety initiatives.
The discussion provided an opportunity for the NSIB team and Governor Makinde to deliberate on areas of mutual interest, including the need for continuous education and training on safety protocols, as well as the importance of public awareness campaigns to instill a culture of safety among citizens.
The visit concluded with a mutual commitment to strengthening collaboration and auctioning programmes and projects that would benefit not only Oyo State but also other regions of the country.