President Bola Tinubu has expressed his deep condolences to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Board, staff, and the families of those affected by a recent helicopter crash near Bonny Finima, off the Port Harcourt coast.
In a statement released Friday by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga titled “President Tinubu Commiserates with the NNPC Board and Families of Victims Onboard the Helicopter in Port-Harcourt,” Tinubu conveyed his “deepest sympathies” to the grieving families.
He said that the government is committed to supporting ongoing rescue efforts and discovering the full details behind the tragic accident.
Following the crash of the East Winds Aviation helicopter registered as 5NBQG, Tinubu has ordered intensified search and rescue operations, directing military officers in the area to assist in collaboration with the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, and other relevant agencies.
News About Nigeria reported that the helicopter, hired by NNPC, was carrying contract staff to the FPSO-NUIMS ANTAN facility when it plunged into the Atlantic on Thursday.
Rivers State Police confirmed that the helicopter had two crew members and six passengers onboard. Grace Iringe-Koko, spokesperson for the state’s Police Command, said the police marine division and other agencies had begun recovery efforts.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, also acknowledged the accident, stating that the government will provide recovery and support efforts.
In his message, Tinubu shared, “I fervently pray that the Almighty God will grant eternal rest to the three departed souls and comfort their families.”
