Nigeria Laments as Fatal Helicopter crash claim more lives

The National Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has launched an investigation into the tragic helicopter crash involving an Eastwind Aviation Sikorsky SK76, which occurred yesterday in the Bonny River near Rivers State, Nigeria. The helicopter, transporting six oil workers and two crew members, crashed en route from the Port Harcourt Military base to the Nuim Antan offshore oil fields. Early reports indicate that all eight individuals on board have likely perished.

Rivers State Police Command spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed that the helicopter crashed at approximately 11 a.m. near the Mimbo platform of Antan Producing Limited. Marine units, along with other agencies, are conducting search and recovery efforts. The Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development also verified the crash, noting that three bodies have been recovered, while the search for other passengers continues.

The NSIB detailed that the helicopter did not transmit an Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) signal, requiring authorities to manually locate the accident site. Multiple agencies, including the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Nigerian Search and Rescue Unit, and Nigerian Armed Forces, are collaborating to locate potential survivors. Neighboring aerodromes have been alerted to aid in the ongoing search efforts, which include low-flying aircraft.

The helicopter’s passengers were contract employees of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), bound for offshore duties. NSIB’s Director of Public Affairs, Mrs. Bimbo Oladeji, expressed condolences and emphasized the agency’s commitment to uncovering the cause of the crash, urging the public to avoid speculation during the investigation. NSIB Director-General Captain Alex Badeh Jr. reiterated the bureau's resolve to thoroughly investigate the incident to ensure accurate findings.