Prof. Mansur Matazu, the Director -General of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (Nimet) and Engr. Akin Olateru, the Director -General of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) in a discussion at the two-day 7th Aviation Summit, held in Abuja
The seventh annual Aviation Summit held in Abuja witnessed an unprecedented convergence of meteorological and safety experts, as Prof. Mansur Matazu, the Director-General of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (Nimet), and Engr. Akin Olateru, the Director-General of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), engaged in a profound discussion to enhance aviation safety in Nigeria.
The two-day summit, a pivotal event on the aviation calendar, brought together leaders from various sectors of the aviation industry, including government officials, airline executives, aviation experts, and stakeholders. The theme of this year’s summit was “Collaboration for Safer Skies,” reflecting the industry’s collective commitment to enhancing safety standards.
Prof. Mansur Matazu, a renowned meteorologist with a wealth of experience, opened the discussion with insights into the pivotal role of meteorological data in aviation safety.
He emphasized the importance of accurate weather forecasting and its impact on flight operations. “Weather-related incidents remain a significant concern for the aviation industry,” said Prof. Matazu.
“Collaboration between meteorologists and safety investigators can lead to proactive measures to mitigate weather-related risks.
“Engr. Akin Olateru, a veteran in aviation safety, echoed the sentiment of collaboration. He highlighted the crucial work of the NSIB in investigating aviation accidents and incidents.
“Our goal is not only to determine the cause of accidents but also to prevent them from happening again,” stated Olateru.
“Working closely with meteorologists allows us to better understand the weather-related factors contributing to accidents.
“During their discussion, both directors-general proposed the establishment of a joint task force comprising experts from Nimet and NSIB.
This task force would focus on the development of predictive models, improved data sharing, and real-time monitoring of weather conditions at airports across Nigeria.
By merging meteorological insights with safety investigations, the aviation industry aims to proactively identify and address potential hazards.
The collaboration between Nimet and NSIB was met with enthusiasm by summit attendees. Airlines, pilot associations, and other stakeholders expressed their support for this initiative, recognizing the potential to significantly enhance aviation safety in Nigeria.
The 7th Aviation Summit in Abuja concluded with a sense of optimism and renewed commitment to safer skies.
Prof. Mansur Matazu and Engr. Akin Olateru’s discussion and proposed collaboration mark a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to make Nigerian aviation even safer for passengers and crew alike. As the industry looks to the future, this partnership between meteorology and safety investigation holds the promise of fewer accidents and smoother flights in Nigeria’s skies.
