By Joseph Erunke, Abuja

The Network for the Empowerment of Female Governance and Development (NEFGAD) has called for an independent review of the Nigerian Safety and Investigation Bureau (NSIB)’s handling of the July 2024 Air Peace runway incursion incident.

The group urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to commission a transparent, external assessment to help strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s aviation safety framework.

Speaking during a media briefing in Abuja, NEFGAD’s Acting Head of Office, Barr. Unekwu Blessing Ojo, said the organization believes an impartial review would help clarify the issues that have generated public debate following the release of the NSIB’s toxicology-related findings.

Ojo explained that NEFGAD, which advocates transparency in governance and aviation regulation, wants the matter addressed in a way that ensures alignment with global standards and reinforces trust in the nation’s investigative institutions.

She noted that differing interpretations and public reactions surrounding aspects of the NSIB report have created concerns within the sector, adding that a fully independent evaluation would help provide clarity and prevent future misunderstandings.

According to her, aviation investigation bodies must maintain processes that inspire public confidence, especially in matters that attract national and international attention.

“As a country working to consolidate air safety gains, Nigeria must ensure that its institutions function with openness and consistency,” she said.

NEFGAD urged the Federal Government to commission a review covering investigative procedures, communication protocols, quality assurance systems, and overall institutional structure, using the Air Peace incident as a case study.

Ojo added that such a step would strengthen both the NSIB and the wider aviation ecosystem.

“The safety of citizens and the confidence of the international community must always be paramount,” she said.