The Senate on Wednesday mandated its Committee on Aviation to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the increasing number of runway accidents and near-mishaps across the country’s airports.
It also called for the immediate construction of a second runway at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja to ease pressure on the existing facility and enhance operational safety.
The resolution of the Red Chambers followed its consideration and adoption of a motion sponsored by Senator Abdulfatai Buhari (Oyo North) on the “need to strengthen aviation safety after the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) released its report on the June 22, 2025 Air Peace runway overrun at the Port Harcourt International Airport.”
Although no lives were lost in the incident, Buhari said the NSIB report exposed “critical gaps in safety standards, infrastructure management, and operational compliance,” warning that such lapses could endanger passengers and erode public confidence in Nigeria’s aviation system.
He expressed concern over the rising number of runway-related incidents, noting that at least seven near air-mishaps have occurred this year alone.
Lawmakers also tasked FAAN to prioritise the rehabilitation of runways, installation of modern navigational aids, and provision of airfield lighting, starting with the Port Harcourt International Airport.
The Aviation Committee was mandated to engage with all relevant agencies, including the NSIB, NCAA, FAAN, the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), and airline operators, to ensure full implementation of the safety recommendations and report back to the chamber within six weeks.
(The Nation)
