President Bola Tinubu has expressed his condolences to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Board, its staff, and the families impacted by the recent helicopter crash off the coast of Bonny Finima, Port-Harcourt.
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 families of the victims and reaffirmed his solidarity with all those affected by the tragedy.
- The statement, titled “President Tinubu Commiserates with the NNPC Board and Families of Victims Onboard the Helicopter in Port-Harcourt,” also highlighted Tinubu’s directive for intensified search and rescue operations to locate any remaining passengers or evidence. The helicopter, operated by East Winds Aviation and registered as 5NBQG, was transporting contract staff to the FPSO-NUIMS ANTAN facility when it crashed into the Atlantic on Thursday.
In furtherance of the rescue mission, Tinubu instructed military personnel involved in operations in the area to collaborate with the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), and other relevant agencies. This coordinated effort aims to ensure a thorough investigation and effective recovery process.
The President emphasized the government’s commitment to uncovering the circumstances surrounding the incident and providing closure to those affected.
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,” offering words of solace amid the grief.
