President Bola Tinubu has ordered an intensified search and rescue operation for passengers of the helicopter that crashed into the Atlantic Ocean near Bonny Finima in Port Harcourt on Thursday. The helicopter, operated by East Winds Aviation and registered as 5NBQG, was hired by NNPC Limited to transport contract staff to the FPSO—NUIMS ANTAN facility.

The crash, which occurred at 11:22 a.m., involved a Sikorsky SK76 helicopter that had taken off from Port Harcourt Military Base heading for the oil rig. Tragically, three passengers have been confirmed dead, while five others were on board at the time, according to the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development spokesperson, Odutayo Oluseyi. Authorities report that the helicopter went down near Bonny Finima in the Atlantic, triggering immediate rescue efforts.

In a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, President Tinubu directed military personnel in the area to join and support the rescue mission. He emphasized the need for coordination among the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, and other relevant agencies.

The President extended his condolences to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited and the families of those who lost their lives. He offered prayers for the departed, asking for comfort and strength for their loved ones.