The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has renewed its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Lagos (UNILAG) to deploy a metallurgical science laboratory at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA) in Abuja. The initial MoU was signed in July 2018 and was renewed by NSIB Director-General, Capt. Alex Badeh Jr., and UNILAG Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola.
During the signing ceremony at the UNILAG Senate Building, Capt. Badeh emphasized the importance of collaboration between NSIB and academic institutions to optimize the use of available resources. He noted, “The initial MoU was signed in 2018, but there has been a lack of movement on it. We need the expertise from the University of Lagos and other Nigerian universities to work with us.”
Badeh revealed plans to relocate some equipment from the NSIB to UNILAG, stating that this collaboration aims to improve scientific capabilities and research. He mentioned upcoming consultations with professors from UNILAG to reassess past diagnostics and identify new equipment needs.
Prof. Ogunsola highlighted the significance of the equipment for teaching and research at the university, stating, “We want to move Nigeria forward as a university and challenge us to come up with solutions.” She emphasized the importance of demand-driven research and collaboration to enhance Nigeria’s manpower.
Prof. Samson Adeosun, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at UNILAG, urged NSIB leadership to expedite the movement of the equipment to facilitate this important partnership.
The renewed MoU is expected to foster greater collaboration between NSIB and UNILAG, contributing to advancements in metallurgical science and improving safety standards in Nigeria’s aviation sector.