The Banjul Accord Group Aviation Safety and Security Oversight Organisation (BAGASOO) has reported a significant improvement in aviation safety across its member states, with the safety profile rising from 40% to 63% since the organisation’s inception in 2009.
BAGASOO, which includes Cabo Verde, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone, announced the progress at the BAGASOO Safety Conference 2025 on Monday in Abuja.
Speaking at the event, Jailza Soraya Rodrigues Silva, BAGASOO Executive Director, attributed the improvement to sustained efforts in building technical capacity and enhancing oversight mechanisms among member states.
Since its establishment in 2009. BAGASOO’s support with the implementation of international safety protocols has helped to significantly improve safety in aviation within the region from 40% to 63%,”
She described the anniversary as a moment for reflection and future planning, highlighting the introduction of a $1 safety levy and the expansion of BAGASOO’s mandate to include aviation security oversight as key developments.
“This conference is an opportunity to reflect on our journey and shape the future of aviation safety in the BAG region.
“In addition to the $1 safety levy, we have also expanded BAGASOO’s mandate to include security oversight systems, a significant milestone in strengthening our aviation governance architecture,” she said.
Chris Najomo, Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and Chairman of BAGASOO’s Board of Directors, applauded the organisation’s evolution and the dedication of its partners.
“As we reflect on the journey so far, let us also recommit ourselves to the goals ahead which include deepening collaboration, embracing innovation and consolidating on gains we made for a safer, more resilient aviation sector in our region,” Najomo stated.
In his remarks, Yves Koniig, Senior International Cooperation Officer for Sub-Saharan Africa at the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), reiterated the agency’s support for BAGASOO’s objectives.
“We are here to exchange knowledge on aviation safety and share best practices. Over the past year, we have supported BAGASOO with training, regulatory guidance, and active participation in regional initiatives,” he noted.
Richard Gatete, Executive Director of the Civil Aviation Safety Oversight Agency (CASOA) of the East African Community, also described the conference as a vital platform for integration and shared learning.
“Just like BAGASOO, CASOA promotes harmonisation among member states in the East African Community. But the bigger question now is: how do we develop a unified regulatory framework for the entire African continent?” Gatete said.
He commended the conference organisers for fostering cross-regional engagement and emphasised the need to align with broader continental frameworks such as the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC).
The two-day event, which also marks the organisation’s 15th anniversary, brought together stakeholders from across the continent to review progress and chart a path forward for regional aviation safety.
