The Banjul Accord Group Aviation Safety Oversight Organisation (BAGASOO) is actively seeking new revenue streams beyond contributions from its member states to sustain its operations and enhance aviation safety oversight in West Africa.

Speaking at the 29th Board of Directors meeting in Abuja, Nigeria, Chairman of the Board and Director-General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo, urged member states to prioritize the timely payment of their financial commitments. He stressed that financial stability is crucial for implementing critical programs and maintaining the organization’s mandate.

BAGASOO, which includes Nigeria, Cape Verde, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone, was established to enhance air transport safety within the sub-region through shared resources and collaboration.

Capt. Najomo also called for the swift conclusion of an ongoing investigation into the organization’s financial accounts, emphasizing the need for transparency and due process.

Executive Director of BAGASOO, Jailza Soraya Rodrigues Silva, highlighted the organization’s efforts to strengthen financial controls and mitigate risks associated with mismanagement. These efforts include improved internal auditing, stricter budgetary controls, enhanced financial reporting, and better regulatory compliance.

She also underscored the urgent need for recruitment, noting that vacancies in key positions were affecting efficient decision-making and service delivery. Retaining skilled professionals, she added, is essential for BAGASOO’s long-term success.

Barr. Mary Tufano, former Regional Legal Adviser at BAGASOO and current Director of Legal Services at the NCAA, acknowledged the financial challenges but reassured that efforts are in place to overcome them. She reiterated the importance of member states fulfilling their financial obligations to ensure the organization’s sustainability and continued impact on regional aviation safety.