The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has confirmed that a helicopter with eight people on board, including six passengers and two crew members, has crashed.
In an official statement, the company revealed that three bodies have so far been recovered, while rescue operations are continuing.
The Chief Corporate Communications Officer of NNPCL, Olufemi Soneye, provided details in the statement, saying: “On the 24th of October 2024, about 11:22 am, we lost contact with the Helicopter – Register Number: 5NBQG, engaged by NNPC Limited, that took off from Port Harcourt NAF Base en route the FPSO – NUIMS ANTAN. The helicopter was operated by East Winds Aviation.”
Soneye further added: “There were 8 persons on board (6 passengers and 2 crew members). The appropriate authorities have been contacted, including the Ministry of Aviation, who has since issued a press statement. Search and rescue missions are currently ongoing. So far, three (3) bodies have been recovered.”
NNPCL expressed its condolences to the families affected by the accident. “Our prayers are with the passengers, crew, and their respective families at this very difficult time. We will continue to do everything possible to support the ongoing search and rescue operation,” the statement read.
As investigations proceed, NNPCL has assured the public that further updates will be provided regularly.
