President Bola Tinubu has extended his heartfelt condolences to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Board, its staff, and the families of those affected by the recent helicopter crash off the coast of 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 grieving families, affirming his solidarity during this tragic time.
The statement, titled “President Tinubu Commiserates with the NNPC Board and Families of Victims Onboard the Helicopter in Port-Harcourt,” detailed the President’s directive for an “intensification of search and rescue operations” aimed at locating any remaining passengers or evidence related to the incident involving an East Winds Aviation helicopter, registered as 5NBQG.
The helicopter, which was hired by NNPC Limited, was reportedly ferrying contract staff to the FPSO-NUIMS ANTAN facility when it tragically crashed into the Atlantic Ocean on Thursday. In response to the incident, Tinubu has urged military officers involved in operations in the area to join the rescue mission, emphasizing the need for collaboration with the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, and other key agencies involved in recovery and investigation efforts.
The President’s directive highlights the government’s commitment to uncovering the full circumstances surrounding the accident and providing closure for those affected. In his message to the bereaved families, Tinubu stated, “I fervently pray that the Almighty God will grant eternal rest to the three departed souls and comfort their families,” reflecting the nation’s mourning in the aftermath of this unfortunate event.