Tinubu Orders Military to Intensify Search and Join Helicopter Crash Rescue Efforts

President Tinubu has directed the military to strengthen search and rescue operations for the victims of the recent helicopter crash, mobilizing additional resources to assist in recovery efforts. Learn more about the ongoing mission.

President Bola Tinubu has ordered a heightened search and rescue operation for the passengers of the helicopter that tragically crashed into the Atlantic near Bonny Finima, Port-Harcourt, on Thursday.

The helicopter with the registration number 5NBQG, managed by East Winds Aviation, was commissioned by NNPC Limited to transport contract staff members to their FPSO—NUIMS ANTAN facility.

Three people were confirmed dead in the crash.

The accident happened at 11:22 a.m. over the waterways in Port Harcourt when a Sikorsky SK76 helicopter, registered as 5NBQG and operated by East Wind Aviation, departed from Port Harcourt Military Base (DNPM) en route to the FPSO — NUIMS ANTAN oil rig.

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Odutayo Oluseyi, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, stated that there were eight individuals confirmed on board.

According to a statement from the authorities, the aircraft went down in the waters near Bonny Finima in the Atlantic Ocean, and rescue efforts are currently underway.

In a statement released by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, President Tinubu called upon military officers engaged in various operations within the zone to participate in the rescue mission. He emphasized providing full support to organizations such as the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, and other pertinent agencies.

The president also expressed condolences to the Board and staff of Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, as well as to the families of all those who were confirmed deceased in the accident.

He earnestly prays that the Almighty God will grant eternal rest to the three departed souls and provide comfort to their families.