Tinubu Orders Investigation, Intensifies Search After NNPC Helicopter Crash, Extends Condolences To Victims’ Families

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria 

President Bola Tinubu has expressed his deep condolences to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Board, its staff, and the families affected by the recent helicopter crash off the coast of Bonny Finima in Port Harcourt. 

The incident, involving an East Winds Aviation helicopter registered as 5NBQG, occurred on Thursday while ferrying NNPC contract staff to the FPSO—NUIMS ANTAN facility.  

In a statement released on Friday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Tinubu conveyed his “deepest sympathies” to the grieving families. 

He assured them of his solidarity during this difficult time, emphasising the government’s commitment to uncovering the full circumstances surrounding the tragic event.  

The President has called for an immediate and thorough investigation into the crash, directing an intensified search and rescue operation to locate any remaining passengers or evidence from the wreckage. 

He has urged the involvement of military officers in the region, encouraging them to collaborate with the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, and other relevant agencies to ensure a comprehensive response.  

The Rivers State Police Command confirmed the crash, noting that the helicopter carried two crew members and six other occupants when it went down. 

Efforts to locate and recover the aircraft and its passengers are currently underway. The police marine division, alongside other agencies, has launched a coordinated search operation, determined to recover any survivors or remains from the Atlantic Ocean.  

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, also confirmed the tragic incident, extending condolences and pledging the ministry’s full cooperation in the investigation. He emphasised the critical role of the search teams, which include military and emergency personnel, in understanding what led to the crash.  

In his message to the affected families, President Tinubu prayed for divine comfort and eternal rest for the victims, acknowledging the profound loss experienced by their loved ones. His statements highlight the government’s resolve to provide closure to those impacted and ensure that such accidents are thoroughly examined to prevent future tragedies.