President Bola Tinubu has extended his heartfelt condolences to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Board, staff, and families affected by the tragic helicopter crash off Bonny Finima in Port Harcourt. In a statement released on Friday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Tinubu expressed his deepest sympathies to the families of the victims, affirming his solidarity with those grieving.
The helicopter, registered as 5NBQG and hired by NNPC Limited, was carrying contract staff to the FPSO-NUIMS ANTAN facility when it crashed into the Atlantic on Thursday. President Tinubu has directed an intensification of search and rescue operations to locate any remaining passengers or evidence. He has also urged military officers to join the rescue mission, ensuring collaboration with the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, and other crucial agencies.
In his message to the bereaved, Tinubu said, “I fervently pray that the Almighty God will grant eternal rest to the three departed souls and comfort their families.” The Rivers State Police Command confirmed the crash, with two crew members and six occupants on board. A search party has begun, with the police marine division cooperating with other agencies to recover the aircraft and occupants.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, also confirmed the incident, underscoring the government’s dedication to uncovering the full circumstances surrounding the accident and providing closure to those affected .
