The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has stated that the dedication of its members involved in the helicopter crash will not be forgotten, News About Nigeria reports.
The president of the association, Comrade Engr Festus Osifo, made this known in a statement on Friday.
Recall that a helicopter was involved in an accident near Bonny Finima on Thursday in Port-Harcourt, leaving at least five people dead.
The helicopter was operated by East Winds Aviation and registered as 5NBQG, and was hired by NNPC Limited to ferry some contract staff to the NNPCL facility FPSO—NUIMS ANTAN.
The accident occurred at 11:22 a.m. along the waterways in Port Harcourt when it took off from Port Harcourt Military Base (DNPM) to the FPSO-NUIMS ANTAN oil rig.
Osifo, while mourning the members of the association who lost their lives, stated that their contributions to the sector and to our association will be sorely missed.
He also extended the heartfelt condolences of the association to the families, friends, and colleagues of the victims during the difficult time.
He noted that the association is currently working to gather more information about the circumstances surrounding the crash and is cooperating fully with the relevant authorities in their investigation.
He stated, “The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) is deeply saddened and shocked by the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of four of its esteemed members. The crash occurred in the early hours of Thursday, October 24th, 2024, in Rivers State.
“The deceased members were valued members of the PENGASSAN family and dedicated professionals in the oil and gas industry. Their contributions to the sector and to our association will be sorely missed.
“We share in their grief and offer our unwavering support as we navigate this tragic event. We are committed to providing assistance to bereaved families in any way possible.
“We urge all parties involved to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation to determine the cause of the accident and urgent measures put in place to prevent future tragedies.
“PENGASSAN calls for all her members everywhere through the branches to observe a moment of silence and reflection in honour of our fallen comrades. Their dedication and service to the oil and gas industry will never be forgotten.
“We will continue to update the public as more information becomes available.”
