Aviation stakeholders and delegates gathered at the the Nigerian Aviation Fire and Safety Association (NAFSA) Biennial Conference in Abuja have called for significant improvements in emergency response capabilities within the Nigerian aviation sector.
The participants, who convened under the theme “Rationale for Collaborations and Inclusiveness in Emergency Response Geared Toward Achieving the Aviation Roadmap,” emphasized the need for adherence to international standards, increased training, and improved infrastructure.
In a communique issued at the conclusion of the conference, the stakeholders urged the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to ensure strict compliance with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Annex 14 guidelines to help prevent non-compliance by relevant agencies and parastatals.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) was also urged to allocate more funds for training its firefighters to enhance their effectiveness and efficiency.
Additionally, the stakeholders called for the renovation of dilapidated FAAN fire stations across various airports and the construction of standard fire stations to replace makeshift structures.
To ensure standardization in firefighting equipment and kits, the stakeholders recommended that FAAN prioritize the acquisition of uniform equipment. Furthermore, both FAAN and other state-owned airports were urged to invest in adequate training for all fire officers within their organizations.
The communique also highlighted the importance of collaboration among aviation stakeholders.
It emphasized the need for continued collaboration and the signing of Memoranda of Collaboration to strengthen synergy and improve emergency response capabilities.
