The Banjul Accord Group Aviation Safety and Security Oversight Organization (Bagasoo) has reported significant improvements in aviation safety across member countries as its safety profile has risen from 40% to 63% since its organization's launch in 2009.
Bagasse Soo, which includes Cabo Verde, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria and Sierra Leone, announced its progress at Bagasse Soo Safety Conference 2025 on Monday in Abuja.
Speaking at the event, Bagasse Soraya Rodrigues Silva, executive director of Bagasse Soraya Rodrigues Silva, attributed the improvement to sustained efforts to build technical capacity among member states and strengthen surveillance mechanisms.
This is the first time since its establishment in 2009. The implementation of Bagasse Soo's international safety protocols has helped to significantly improve the safety of aviation within the region from 40% to 63%.
She described the anniversary as a moment of reflection and planning for the future, highlighting the introduction of a $1 safety collection and the expansion of Bagasse Soo's mission to include air security surveillance as a major development.
“This conference is an opportunity to look back on our journey and shape the future of aviation safety in the Bag region.
“In addition to the $1 safety levy, Bagasse Soo's mission has also expanded its mission to include security surveillance systems, a key milestone in strengthening its aviation governance architecture,” she said.
Chris Najomo, director of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and chairman of Bagasse Soo's board of directors, praised the organization's evolution and the dedication of its partners.
“Looking back on our journey so far, let's also recommend future goals, including deepening collaboration, embracing innovation and consolidating for the safer and more resilient aviation sector in our region,” Najomo said.
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 purpose.
“We are here to exchange knowledge about aviation safety and share best practices. Over the past year we have supported Bagasse Soo in training, regulatory guidance and active participation in local initiatives,” he said.
Richard Gattete, executive director of the Civil Aviation Safety Monitoring Agency for East African Communities (CASOA), described the conference as an important platform for integration and shared learning.
“Like Bagasse, Kasoa promotes harmony among member states of East African communities. But now the bigger question is how to develop a unified regulatory framework across the African continent,” Gathe said.
He praised the conference organizers for promoting interregional engagement, highlighting the need to be consistent with broader continental frameworks such as the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC).
The two-day event, which marks the organization's 15th anniversary, attracted stakeholders from all over the continent to check progress and explore paths for local aviation safety.
