Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has confirmed a helicopter crash involving a Sikorsky SK76 operated by East Wind Aviation.
The incident occurred around 11:22 am on Thursday in the waters near Bonny Finima, Atlantic Ocean, while the helicopter was traveling from Port Harcourt Military Base to the NUIMANTAN oil rig.
The aircraft had eight occupants.
Keyamo shared this information in a statement on his X account on Thursday, expressing his deep concern about the tragedy.
“The helicopter, carrying eight individuals, went down in the waters close to Bonny Finima in the Atlantic Ocean. The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has been alerted, and emergency response teams have been mobilized. Search and rescue operations are currently in progress, supported by the Nigerian Search and Rescue Unit, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, the National Safety Investigation Bureau, and other relevant organizations. Nearby aerodromes have also been informed to provide assistance.
“Although no Emergency Locator Transmitter signal has been detected, efforts are being made manually to locate the crash site. All available resources, including military support and low-flying aircraft, have been dispatched to aid in the search for survivors. As of now, three bodies have been recovered,” Keyamo stated.
He also offered condolences to the families of the victims, saying, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families affected, and we are dedicated to providing the necessary support during this challenging time.”
