The Ministry of Transport hosted a landmark ceremony to inaugurate the Governing Board of the Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation and Prevention Bureau (AIB) the first since the Bureau’s establishment in 2020.
The event, held at the Ministry’s Conference Room, marked a significant step in strengthening Ghana’s aviation safety oversight. In his keynote address, the Minister for Transport, Hon. Joseph Bukari Nikpe, congratulated the newly appointed Board Members and emphasized the importance of their roles in enhancing the Bureau’s efficiency and effectiveness.
The AIB is responsible for investigating aircraft accidents and serious incidents that occur within Ghana and the Accra Flight Information Region (FIR), in accordance with international aviation safety standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The newly inaugurated Board is tasked with providing strategic oversight to ensure that the Bureau delivers on its mandate professionally and independently.
The Minister noted that the Board’s inauguration comes at a critical time as Ghana prepares for its next ICAO safety audit. He stressed the importance of coordinated efforts between the Board and the Bureau’s management team, highlighting the need to strengthen the country’s reputation as a safe and reliable aviation hub within West Africa
He also called for strategic investment in advanced aircraft investigation tools and technologies, essential for ensuring accurate, independent, and timely investigations. In 2024 alone, the AIB recorded eight serious incidents and fifty-three incidents an indication of the need for sustained improvement in safety infrastructure and processes.
The Board will operate under the supervision of the Ministry of Transport and is expected to offer high-level guidance while maintaining the integrity of the Bureau’s management structure. The Minister reminded members to observe good governance practices and consult with the Ministry on major decisions.
The members of the newly reconstituted AIB Governing Board are:
Mr. Daniel Acquah – Chairman
Mr. John Mmeb Kunyan Wumborti – Member
Mrs. Justina Tete-Donkor – Member
Mr. William Ato Kwamina Orhin – Member
Prof. Daniel Atuah Obeng – Member
Mr. Derrick Amaning Kwarteng – Member
Dr. Juliana Abagsonema Abane – Member
Following the inauguration, the Board Chairman, Mr. Daniel Acquah, delivered a brief acceptance speech on behalf of his colleagues. He expressed gratitude for the confidence reposed in them and assured the Ministry and the nation of their commitment to serve with diligence.
“We are honoured by this appointment and fully aware of the enormous responsibility it carries,” Mr. Acquah said. “We pledge to work diligently and give our very best in accordance with the Bureau’s mandate. We will uphold the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and accountability to ensure aviation safety in Ghana and the region at large.”
The Ministry expressed strong confidence in the Board’s ability to provide sound direction and ensure the Bureau plays a key role in advancing Ghana’s aviation safety agenda. The Minister officially declared the AIB Governing Board duly inaugurated.
This event sets a new benchmark for aviation safety governance in Ghana, reaffirming the country’s commitment to global aviation standards and its vision of becoming the preferred aviation hub in the sub-region.