The new Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), Capt. Alex Badeh Jr, has disclosed that his vision is to build an agency that is defined by the transformative advancements it inspires in transport safety, and not by the tragedies it investigates.
The Director-General, who took over the reins of leadership from Engr. Akin Olateru following his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, disclosed this, today, during a brief handover ceremony, which took place at the Bureau’s Head Office in Abuja.
Capt. Badeh stated that the Bureau under his administration, will not simply react to transportation accidents, but proactively prevent them from occurring.
“We will harness the power of data, technology, and human ingenuity to build a future where every journey is undertaken with peace of mind, every mile traversed with the assurance of a safe return,” he said.
Capt. Badeh further stated that his administration’s key pillars are steadfast commitment to excellence, inter-agency and inter-sector collaboration, utmost transparency and accountability, and promotion of safety awareness, sensitisation and education.
“Under my watch, the NSIB will become a partner, educator, and advocate for transport safety. We will engage every stakeholder, from pilots in the cockpit to mechanics in the workshop, from policymakers in the Federal Capital Territory to passengers at the bus stations. Together, we will transform Nigeria into a land where every journey is safe, every landing is a celebration, and where the only turbulence we encounter is the thrill of progress unfolding before us”.
He, however, implored the NSIB team for their support, cooperation, hardwork, expertise, commitment, passion and professionalism, which he said are the fuel that would make his vision for the Bureau a success.
He also called on every stakeholder and every Nigerian to support and cooperate with the Bureau on its journey to ensure transportation safety in the country.
“Let us make safety not just a slogan, but a way of life. Let us build a transport safety system where every journey is taken with assurance, and every life arrives at its destination safe and sound,” the new Director-General said.
Speaking, the outgoing Director-General, Engr. Olateru, gave glory to the Almighty God for his successful rein as the Director-General of the Bureau, saying he is happy to be leaving the NSIB better than he met it.
The Director-General, who recalled his promise that he would make the Bureau an enviable place to work, said he is happy that he was able to fulfil his promise.
“AIB used to be a place where they sent people that they wanted to purnish but today, we have people from other agencies lobbying, on their own, to come to the NSIB,” Olateru said.
He also appreciated the entire NSIB team that worked directly and indirectly with him for their support and cooperation, as he appealed to them to continue working as a team and give the new Director-General the same support and cooperation they gave him.
Alex Badeh Jr. is a seasoned and accomplished aviation professional, with over 6000 flight hours as both Captain and First Officer, operating domestically and internationally.
He attended University of Wolverhampton, England, where he obtained a degree in Biological Sciences, laying the groundwork for a stellar career in the skies and his future aspirations.
He honed his skills and expertise while working with reputable airlines such as American Airline and American Eagle (a regional subsidiary of American Airlines) in the United States, where he piloted Airbus A320 and Bombardier CRJ 200/700/900 aircraft, respectively. His roles extended beyond flying as he assumed mentorship responsibilities, nurturing aspiring pilots and advocating for higher safety standards within the aviation industry.
In, Nigeria, he worked with Arik Air and Aero Contractors Nigeria Ltd., where he played an instrumental role in fostering safe and efficient air travel, piloting Boeing 737s and Airbus A330s across Africa and major international hubs. He also worked for Emmanuel Aviation Nigeria Ltd and briefly worked at the Presidential Air Fleet (PAF) where he piloted Gulfstream G550 aircraft.
His quest for continuous improvement is evident through numerous certifications, including Airline Transport Pilot Airplane Multiengine Land, a range of type ratings, and FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator qualifications.
His proficiency extends to a multitude of aircraft, holding FAA/ICAO NCAA licenses for major airlines in Nigeria and the USA, coupled with an impressive array of type ratings encompassing the B-737, CL-65, DA-2000, G-V, A-330, and A320 series.
Alex Badeh’s commitment to safety and mentorship garnered him prestigious accolades, including the Minister’s Commendation for Safety, awarded by the Nigerian Minister of Aviation, and the Pilot Mentor Award from Aero Contractors Nigeria LTD.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Alex Badeh Jr. is an advocate for diversity and inclusion in the aviation industry, serving as a member of PSA Airlines Diversity & Inclusion Council in Vandalia, Ohio, where he actively contributes to shaping policies for equitable opportunities within the industry. He is also an advocate for mental health in the aviation industry where he has contributed to studies aimed at improving access to proper mental health and breaking down barriers to discussions of mental health in aviation industry professionals.
Tunji Oketunbi
Head, Public Affairs
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