Nigeria and Ghana finalize agreement on joint emergency response to enhance air travel security

The Federal Government has reinforced its collaborative efforts with Ghana, specifically focusing on the coordination and provision of Search and Rescue services, a vital aspect of aviation safety and emergency response management, in line with international standards.

This development is in direct compliance with the stipulations outlined by the International Civil Aviation Organisation, particularly Annex 12 of the Chicago Convention, which mandates contracting states to establish and maintain effective Search and Rescue services and foster cooperation with neighboring states to ensure prompt responses to aviation emergencies.

A ceremony was held to formalize the agreement, attended by key figures including Capt. Chris Najomo, Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, who led an official visit to Accra, Ghana.

Other notable attendees included Mr Tayo John, Director, Air Traffic Services, representing the MD/CEO of NAMA, Umar Farouk, and Alhaji Ahmad Abba, Director of Aerodrome and Airspace Standards, DAAS.

The primary objectives of the agreement encompass enhancing operational coordination between the search and rescue units of both states and promoting regional aviation safety initiatives, aligning with ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices, SARPs.

According to the Nigerian delegation, the effective implementation of this agreement would substantially enhance search and rescue coordination, operational efficiency, and aviation safety for both countries and the broader West African sub-region.