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  • Aero Contractors, NSIB sign MoU to strengthen aviation safety training

    Aero Contractors, NSIB sign MoU to strengthen aviation safety training

    Nigeria’s oldest carrier, Aero Contractors Airlines, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) to enhance the training of key technical personnel in accident investigation.

    According to Aero Contractors’ Managing Director, Captain Ado Sanusi, the agreement will provide on-the-job training opportunities for NSIB’s Transportation Safety Officers and other personnel, leveraging the airline’s expertise.

    Sanusi described the partnership as a step towards fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development, emphasizing that aviation safety relies on expertise, experience, and collaboration.

    He added that through this MoU, both organisations are taking decisive steps to enhance the skills and technical knowledge of professionals responsible for ensuring safety in the aviation sector.

    Sanusi said: “As we formalise this historic partnership between Aero Contractors and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau, this Memorandum of Understanding marks a significant milestone in our collective commitment to aviation safety and human capital development in Nigeria.

    “Aero Contractors has a proud legacy of over 60 years in the aviation industry, and at the heart of our operations is a deep-rooted safety culture. We have always believed that safety is not just a regulatory requirement, it is a fundamental responsibility that we all share. As we often say, “safety is everybody’s business.”NSIB will undoubtedly benefit from our Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities, gaining practical, hands-on experience that will strengthen their investigative and technical expertise. 

    “In turn, Aero Contractors is honoured to contribute to the improvement of aviation safety standards in Nigeria.

    “This initiative is not just about training, it is about fostering a safety-driven ecosystem where industry players work together to prevent accidents and improve operational standards. It is about investing in the future of aviation in Nigeria.

    “Today, as we sign this MOU, we celebrate not just a partnership but a shared vision, one where safety remains the cornerstone of our industry. We look forward to the successful implementation of this agreement and the lasting impact it will have on aviation safety in Nigeria.”

    Responding, the Director General of NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh (jnr), said the  

     partnership marks a pivotal step towards a collective commitment to enhancing transportation safety across Nigeria, particularly within the aviation sector.

     He said: “Aero Contractors, with its rich experience and expertise as a leading airline providing scheduled passenger, charter, and allied services, brings a wealth of technical knowledge and operational insight to this partnership.

    “This collaboration is a testament to the power of synergy combining the regulatory and investigative prowess of NSIB with the practical, hands-on expertise of Aero. Today’s MoU is more than just a document; it is a commitment to mutual growth and safety enhancement.

    “Through this agreement, we will work together to design and deliver customized on-the-job training programs for our Transportation Safety Officers and other staff. 

    “This initiative will equip our personnel with the skills, knowledge, and practical experience needed to excel in their duties, drawing on Aero’s state-of-the-art facilities, simulators, and technical resources. 

    “In return, NSIB will support Aero’s technical personnel with training in accident investigation and related areas, creating a two-way exchange of expertise that benefits us both.

     “This partnership also opens doors to joint conferences, seminars, and symposiums, where we can share best practices, explore new training needs, and build capacity across our workforces. 

    “By deploying our respective facilities and staff pilots, engineers, dispatchers, flight attendants and more, we will strengthen our ability to prevent accidents, respond effectively to incidents, and uphold the highest safety standards in line with international benchmarks, such as the Standards and Recommended Practices of Annex 13 to the Chicago Convention.”

    Read Also: Aero Contractors crashes one-hour air fare to N80,000

    He further said: “I must emphasize the importance of the confidentiality and professionalism that underpin this collaboration. Both parties have agreed to protect shared information and use it solely for safety investigation training, ensuring trust and integrity throughout our partnership.

     “Financially, this MoU is structured with clarity and fairness. The Cost Reimbursement Program and Service Fee Mechanism ensure that Aero’s contributions whether through training, technical support, or facility access are adequately compensated, with costs reviewed regularly to maintain efficiency and quality. This transparency will sustain our partnership for the long term.

    “To oversee the implementation of this MoU, we have established a Steering Committee comprising dedicated representatives from both NSIB and Aero. I am confident that this committee, supported by our designated focal officers, will ensure that our day-to-day efforts align with the objectives we set today.

     “As we sign this MoU, let us recognize that this is not the end but the beginning of a journey. A journey toward safer skies, better-trained professionals, and a stronger aviation ecosystem in Nigeria. Should either party need to amend or terminate this agreement, we have agreed on a process that ensures continuity and respect for ongoing commitments, reflecting our mutual respect and foresight. 

    “I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Aero Contractors’ management and staff for their willingness to partner with us. To my team at NSIB, I commend your dedication and hard work in bringing this collaboration to fruition.”

  • NSIB recommends inspection of Allied Aircraft for mechanical, structural faults

    NSIB recommends inspection of Allied Aircraft for mechanical, structural faults

    The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has recommended the inspection of all Allied Air aircraft by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for potential mechanical and structural vulnerabilities.

    The Bureau said the inspection should specifically focus on the flap and landing gear systems of the aircraft operated by the airline.

    The cargo aircraft with registration number 5N-JRT, operated by Allied Air sustained significant damage after it skidded off the runway in Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja last year December.

    The aircraft had five persons onboard when the incident occurred at approximately 10:06 AM local time on December 11, 2024.

    According to NSIB, the aircraft was operating as flight AJK206 from Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, when it skidded off the right side of Runway 22 into the grass verge after landing in Abuja.

    The NSIB, in a preliminary report released on Saturday, revealed that the aircraft, en route to collect cargo for the Central Bank of Nigeria, experienced a malfunction with its flaps during its final approach at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

    The findings, according to the Bureau, are; “The aircraft departed Murtala Muhammed International Airport (Lagos) at 09:11 and began descent into Abuja at 09:44. 

    The approach was conducted with the First Officer as Pilot Flying and the Captain as Pilot Monitoring.

    “During the final approach, attempts to deploy Flaps 30 were unsuccessful, leaving the flaps stuck at Flaps 15. The aircraft touched down at a speed of 157 knots. A loud bang was reported from the right side upon touchdown.

    “The right main landing gear assembly detached, causing the No. 2 engine nacelle to drag along the runway for approximately 1172 meters before the aircraft veered off the runway.

    “The aircraft came to rest on the grass verge, facing 170 degrees from the runway heading.”

    The damage assessment, according to the Bureau,shows that the right main landing gear was found sheared off from its attachment point, the No. 3 and No. 4 main wheel tires burst ,and damage was observed on the No. 2 engine nacelle and lower right-wing section.

    The Bureau recommended that the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) should inspect all Allied Air aircraft for potential mechanical and structural vulnerabilities, specifically focusing on the flap and landing gear systems.

    It added that its next steps in the investigation would focus on a detailed inspection of the right main landing gear assembly, testing and examination of the aircraft’s flap drive system components, including transmission assemblies and actuators and further analysis on the main wheel tyres for any indications of fail.

    Further findings by the Bureau shows that the structural integrity of the cabin and cockpit remained intact and all occupants exited safely through the forward main door without injuries.

    The NSIB also said both the Captain and First Officer held valid licenses and medical certificates and the aircraft had a valid Certificate of Airworthiness and had performed 101 landings since November 1, 2024, 85 of which used Flaps 15.

    It added that weather conditions were favourable with no adverse meteorological factors reported and all navigational and communication equipment, except the Airfield Lighting Panel System, were serviceable.

  • NSIB, Oyo govt chart path for transport safety

    NSIB, Oyo govt chart path for transport safety

    The Director-General of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) and the Oyo State Government have entered into a pact committing to explore potential areas of collaboration in advancing transport safety measures and accident prevention strategies within the state.

    NSIB’s Director-General, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., disclosed this on Sunday when his team paid a courtesy visit to the Governor of Oyo, Engr. Seyi Makinde, in Ibadan.

    According to a statement by the NSIB’s Director in charge of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, the visit aimed to deepen relationships between the NSIB and the Oyo State Government.

    During the meeting, Captain Alex Badeh Jr. expressed his appreciation for Governor Makinde’s leadership and commitment to infrastructure development in Oyo State, noting the importance of incorporating robust safety protocols across all sectors, including transportation and other industries that require stringent safety oversight.

    He briefed Governor Makinde on NSIB’s mission and key accomplishments in recent years, emphasising the bureau’s dedication to improving safety outcomes through thorough investigations of incidents and accidents, transport safety recommendations, and proactive engagement with stakeholders.

    Read Also: NLC calls for more dialogue on tax reform bills 

    “We are here today to express our admiration for your visionary leadership and to explore how we can work together to promote a culture of transport safety in Oyo State.

    “NSIB is committed to ensuring that safety remains at the forefront of every development initiative, and we believe that by working with state governments, we can create safer environments across Nigeria,” Captain Badeh remarked.

    Governor Seyi Makinde, in response, welcomed the DG and his team, applauding NSIB’s role in enhancing transport safety in Nigeria and expressing his eagerness to explore areas where the Oyo State Government could benefit from the bureau’s expertise, particularly in sectors involving transportation and public safety.

    “Your work is critical in ensuring that we learn from past accidents and prevent future occurrences, and I am pleased to see your proactive approach in reaching out to stakeholders at all levels,” Governor Makinde stated.

    The Governor further highlighted his administration’s commitment to infrastructural development and improving safety standards in the state.

    He also emphasised the importance of cooperation between federal agencies and state governments in achieving lasting progress in safety initiatives.

    The discussion provided an opportunity for the NSIB team and Governor Makinde to deliberate on areas of mutual interest, including the need for continuous education and training on safety protocols, as well as the importance of public awareness campaigns to instill a culture of safety among citizens.

    The visit concluded with a mutual commitment to strengthening collaboration and auctioning programmes and projects that would benefit not only Oyo State but also other regions of the country.

  • NSIB probes cargo plane’s runway excursion at Abuja Airport

    NSIB probes cargo plane’s runway excursion at Abuja Airport

    • Five passengers, crew members onboard evacuated without injuries •Runway temporarily closed

    The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has said it is investigating what caused a cargo plane operated by Allied Air Cargo with five persons on board to skid off the runway at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport yesterday in Abuja.

    The cargo aircraft, with registration and nationality number 5N-JRT, skidded off the runway at approximately 10:06 a.m.

    The aircraft, which operated as flight AJK206 from the Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos, skidded off the right side of Runway 22 into the grass verge after landing.

    The incident propelled the airport authority to temporarily close the runway.

    A statement by the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Obiageli Orah, said there was no injury to those on board the cargo plane and that they were all safely evacuated and taken to FAAN clinic for further medical checks.

    Read Also: NSIB probes Accra-bound aircraft over loss of two engines mid-air

    The statement added: “The runway is being cleared and it is expected to be reopened for operations as soon as possible. The airport emergency response team is on the scene along with accident investigators.

    “We would like to thank the aviation community and the public for their understanding and patience. We also request that all speculations be put on hold until the preliminary report is released by the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB).”

    Also, a statement on the incident by NSIB’s Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs. Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, confirmed that “no fatalities or injuries to the crew or ground personnel have been reported”.

  • NSIB begins probe on cargo aircraft runway excursion at Abuja Airport

    NSIB begins probe on cargo aircraft runway excursion at Abuja Airport

    Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has commenced an investigation into the runway excursion involving a Boeing 737-400 (Cargo) aircraft with registration and nationality marks 5N-JRT, operated by Allied Air.

    The incident occurred at approximately 10:06 AM local time on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

    The aircraft, operating as flight AJK206 from Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, skidded off the right side of Runway 22 into the grass verge after landing.

    Read Also: NSIB probes Accra-bound aircraft over loss of two engines mid-air

    “No fatalities or injuries to the crew or ground personnel have been reported. The aircraft sustained significant damage. Emergency response teams were promptly deployed to the scene to ensure the safety of all personnel and secure the site”, a statement by Mrs Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, Director, Public Affairs and family assistance said.

    It said the NSIB has initiated an investigation to determine the causal and contributory factors that led to this incident.

    “Our Go Team has been dispatched to the site to conduct an on-site assessment, recover relevant data, and interview involved parties. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available,” it added.

  • NSIB recovers black box of Sikorsky SK76 helicopter

    NSIB recovers black box of Sikorsky SK76 helicopter

    The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has recovered the Flight Data Recorder (FDR) and Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) from the Sikorsky SK76 helicopter.

    According to the Bureau, the recovery was done in partnership with the Search and Recovery partners from Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), NIgerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), the Nigerian Navy, and HydroDive.

    The helicopter with registration 5N BQG ditched in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Bonny Finima on October 24, 2024.

    The helicopter, which is operated by Eastwind Aviation, was transporting eight passengers at the time of the accident. 

    Since the accident, the recovery team have recovered five passengers while the team says search for three others is ongoing.

    The Bureau in a statement on Friday by its Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs Bimbo Oladeji said since the accident, NSIB and its search and recovery partners have coordinated a search and recovery effort in collaboration with local and international partners to locate and retrieve the bodies of the deceased and the critical components necessary for a comprehensive investigation.

    Giving an update of the search operations, She stated: “The FDR and CVR, commonly referred to as the aircraft’s “black box,” was retrieved early this morning. 

    “This device is crucial in helping investigators analyse flight performance and cockpit communications to determine the sequence of events leading up to the accident. The recovered recorder has been secured for transport to NSIB’s data analysis lab. 

    “It will undergo data extraction and analysis by NSIB’s specialists to gain insights into the operational and technical conditions preceding the accident and to help determine the cause of the accident.”

    Read Also: NSIB boss, reps aviation committee chair assure on helicopter crash investigation

    She added that as of today, three individuals remain unaccounted for.

    She however noted that long-term search efforts will continue in coordination with local and international partners. 

    The Director General of NSIB, Capt. Alex Badeh Jr. commended the recovery teams and stressed the importance of the investigation:

    He said: “The recovery of the FDR and CVR marks a monumental step in understanding what led to this tragic accident. The black box holds vital information that will provide invaluable insight into the sequence of events leading up to the accident, which will help us determine the cause and inform any necessary safety recommendations. 

    “While our thoughts are with the families of those still unaccounted for, concerted efforts are being made to find the missing individuals and provide answers to the families affected by this accident.”

    He said the Bureau remains dedicated to conducting an investigation that prioritises transparency and aligns with international standards for aviation safety. 

    He promised that more updates will be provided as the investigation progresses and significant developments emerge.

  • NSIB locates wreckage of crashed helicopter in Port Harcourt

    NSIB locates wreckage of crashed helicopter in Port Harcourt

    •Fifth body recovered, three still missing

    The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) said its search and recovery teams have successfully located the wreckage of the Sikorsky SK76 helicopter that crash-landed in Port Harcourt, Rivers.

    NSIB in a statement by Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs Bimbo Oladeji, said the wreckage was identified during recovery dives conducted on Wednesday night.

    The Bureau earlier announced that said it has recovered an additional body from the helicopter crash in Atlantic Ocean in Port Harcourt.

    With this, the total number of recovered bodies from the Eastwind Aviation helicopter crash has increased to five.

    The statement hinted that the body was identified at 09:35a.m on Wednesday by HD Steadfast vessel. It said the recovery actions were initiated by deploying the Fast Rescue Craft (FRC) for retrieval of the body.

    The helicopter, carrying eight individuals, had crash-landed off the coast of Bonny Finima in the Atlantic Ocean on October 24.

    Mrs Oladeji said: “The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) announces that the allied team and partners leading the charge for the search and recovery efforts of the ditched Sikorsky SK76 helicopter, registration 5N BQG, have located its wreckage.

    “The wreckage was identified during last night’s recovery dives, approximately 0.775 nautical miles from the FPSO Adoon. It was located at a depth of 42 meters, with coordinates registered at Latitude 04° 13.634′ N and Longitude 008° 19.442′ E. Preparations are currently underway for the helicopter’s recovery to support further investigation.”

    Read Also: A smoke-free Nigeria is possible: Lessons from Sweden’s successful tobacco harm reduction strategy 

    Director-general of NSIB, Alex Badeh Jr., commended the allied team and partners leading the search and recovery efforts.

    “Locating the wreckage is a critical milestone in our efforts to understand the circumstances surrounding this tragic accident. The dedication and cooperation shown by all involved parties have been exceptional, and we are determined to conduct a thorough investigation to provide clarity and closure to the families of those affected,” Badeh said.

    On the recovery of another body, Mrs Oladeji added: “Following Eastwind’s notification that air ambulance providers were unavailable, NSIB engaged the Nigerian Navy for logistical support. At  11:15a.m, the body was successfully retrieved by the FRC and prepared for transfer to the FPSO deck.

    “At 11:41a.m, an identification process commenced; while no clothing was found on the body, investigators examined specific characteristics for identity confirmation.”

  • Helicopter crash: NSIB to deploy ROV for rescue operation

    Helicopter crash: NSIB to deploy ROV for rescue operation

    The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has disclosed plans to deploy a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) as part of the recovery operation and investigation of the crash of a helicopter into the Atlantic Ocean 

    The Sikorsky SK76 helicopter with registration 5N BQG, operated by Eastwind Aviation had eight persons onboard when the incident occured on Thursday, October 24, 2024.

     The incident took place off the coast of Bonny Finima in the Atlantic Ocean.

    The NSIB in a statement by the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs Bimbo Oladeji said the ROV to be deployed is equipped to operate at depths of up to 1,000 meters and also has advanced sensors and cameras to enhance visibility and precision in deep-water environment. 

    It added that the ROV will facilitate detailed inspection, enable targeted retrieval operations, and assist in gathering vital evidence that will support investigation into the incident.

    The Bureau however noted that despite extensive search efforts, no wreckage or critical components such as the black box, Flight Data Recorder (FDR), or Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) have been located.

    It attributed the inability to recover anything to the challenging conditions of the operating environment, limited visibility at depth and human divers’ operational constraints.

    Read Also: NSIB probes, deploys team as helicopter crashes in Port Harcourt

    The statement reads: “As of 11:55 am today (Saturday), divers began setting up and checking equipment to conduct an underwater search and recovery, followed by preliminary sweeping operations at 2:15 PM.

    “However, by 4:30 PM, diving activities were suspended due to the loss of daylight. Recovery operations are set to resume tomorrow at 9:00 AM local time. Despite extensive search efforts, no wreckage or critical components – such as the black box, Flight Data Recorder (FDR), or Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) – have yet been located due to the challenging conditions of the operating environment, limited visibility at depth and human divers’ operational constraints.

    “To enhance recovery efforts, the NSIB is working to deploy a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) equipped to operate at depths of up to 1,000 meters. With its advanced cameras, sensors, and Tether Management System (TMS), the ROV will enable the NSIB team to conduct detailed surveys, collect environmental data, and capture critical evidence essential to understanding the cause of the incident. 

    “The ROV’s capacity for close inspections and light manipulation tasks will be invaluable in such deep-water environments, where it will aid in assessing wreckage conditions, gathering vital data, and developing insights into potential causes.”

    The Bureau also stated that only three bodies have been recovered since the accident occurred last week.

    It stated: “Contrary to reports suggesting that five bodies have been recovered, we confirm that only three bodies were retrieved on the day of the incident. Efforts to locate the remaining individuals continued the following day – October 25, 2024, and two additional bodies were located by divers, but due to strong ocean currents and limited visibility, these bodies could not be retrieved at that time. 

    “The recovery of the remaining persons onboard remains a top priority for the amalgamated search, rescue and recovery team.”

    The Director General of the NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh Jr. noted that the Bureau is committed to the recovery and investigation operation.

    He stated: “The NSIB, alongside our partners, is fully committed to locating and recovering all individuals and critical components from this unfortunate accident. Our team is working tirelessly to manage the challenging conditions. We remain committed to a thorough investigation that will provide clear answers for the families, loved ones, and the nation.”

    “The NSIB’s investigation is progressing with support from a joint team of government agencies and private partners. We urge the public to refrain from speculation, which can hinder and distract from the investigation and recovery efforts.” 

    He assured that updates on the progress of recovery operations and investigative findings will be provided as soon as verified information becomes available.

    He added that the Bureau remains steadfast in promoting transparency and accountability through its independent investigation process, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing transportation safety in Nigeria.

  • Search for victims of helicopter crash ongoing, says NSIB

    Search for victims of helicopter crash ongoing, says NSIB

    • Agency secures diving perimeter for wreckage location
    • Explains why ill-fated helicopter went down
    • PANDEF, Kalu, others condole with families of victims

    The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has said that the search for those involved in the helicopter crash in Port Harcourt is ongoing.

    So far, the Bureau said three bodies had been recovered, adding that efforts were ongoing to recover more bodies.

    The Bureau also disclosed Saturday that divers engaged in the probe of the crash have successfully established a secured diving perimeter at an expected location of the wreckage.

    However, many eminent Nigerians and groups have continued to commiserate with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), and Arion Energy Services Ltd, over the incident that claimed the lives of eight oil workers, including two union officials.

    The NSIB, in a statement by the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs Bimbo Oladeji, stated that search operations were suspended due to diminishing daylight around 6:15 pm on Friday.

    She noted that at the time the operation was suspended, no debris, survivors, or bodies were recovered during the day’s search.

    The statement read: “In line with global best practices, we are providing an update on the ongoing search and recovery efforts following the October 24, 2024, ditching incident involving a Sikorsky SK76 helicopter operated by Eastwind Aviation.

    “The incident occurred near Bonny Finima, off the coast of Port Harcourt.

    “Rescue operations commenced shortly after, with teams continuing to work extensively to locate the helicopter and any signs of survivors.

    “On the morning of October 25, 2024, at 07:30 AM local time, rescue teams resumed search operations. The search area was expanded as part of ongoing efforts to locate debris or signs of survivors.

    “A team of NSIB Aviation Safety Investigators and Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development representatives arrived at the Nuim Antan facility at 11:30 AM local time.”

    The statement continues: “Investigators conducted interviews with relevant staff to gather information pertinent to the ongoing investigation. The investigative team completed their on-site interviews and departed the FPSO by 3:24 PM.

    “At approximately 6:15 PM, search operations were suspended due to diminishing daylight. Unfortunately, no debris, survivors, or bodies were recovered during the day’s search. 

    NSIB secures diving perimeter for wreckage location 

    “However, the divers successfully established a secured diving perimeter at an expected location of the wreck, which will guide the operations planned for tomorrow.

    “The perimeter depth has been measured at 40-50 meters, and additional diving equipment and resources will be deployed to aid in the continuation of these efforts”.

    The Director General of the NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh Jr. while acknowledging the tireless efforts of the amalgamated rescue teams and supporting partners, assured that the team will continue the operations with every resource necessary.

    Badeh appreciated the cooperation and patience of all stakeholders involved, adding that the Bureau remains committed to providing timely updates as the investigation advances and to conducting a thorough and transparent analysis of the incident.

    Weather probable cause of accident

    Meanwhile, industry sources have fingered inclement weather as a probable cause of the accident given the meteorological condition of Rivers State on the day of the crash.

    They said the weather condition on the flight path on the day of the accident was a major concern for many pilots who fly the rotary wing equipment – choppers.

    They noted that the ill-fated chopper might have hit bad weather in the coastal areas from its aerodrome of take -off enroute its expected platform of disembarkation.

    Read Also: NSIB probes, deploys team as helicopter crashes in Port Harcourt

    Such weather conditions, they noted, may have occasioned the ditching of the chopper into vast waters in the Atlantic Ocean.

    The company that operated the flight, has, however, released the manifest of the ill-fated chopper.

    The passengers were: Tamunoemi Suku,   Ali Lawrence , Etim Emmanuel, Kenneth Chiwen ,Frank Oriamre, and Borris Ndorbo. The pilot was identified as Captain Yakubu Dukas.

    Dukas , an experienced pilot was the vice president of the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE).

    NUPENG mourns oil workers

    The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has expressed deep sorrow over the helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight oil workers, including two union officials.

    In a statement signed by NUPENG President, Williams Akporeha and General Secretary, Afolabi Olawale, the union extended its condolences to the victims’ families, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), and Arion Energy Services Ltd.

    The union emphasised that the tragedy represents a significant loss to the oil and gas sector and its workforce.

    “Their untimely deaths are a profound blow to our industry and workforce,” the statement read.

    NUPENG praised the recovery efforts coordinated by the governments of Rivers and Akwa Ibom states, the Federal Ministry of Aviation, and other relevant agencies.

    “In this time of mourning, we stand together in grief and offer our prayers to the bereaved families and all affected by this tragedy,” the union stated.

    NUPENG reaffirmed its dedication to collaborating with stakeholders to enhance the safety and welfare of its members and the wider community.

    “May the souls of the departed rest in peace, and may their families find the strength to cope with this profound loss,” said NUPENG.

    PANDEF expresses condolences

    The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has also extended heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the Eastwind Aviation helicopter crash on Thursday.

    The statement emphasized PANDEF’s solidarity with the Federal Government, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), the Rivers State government, and the management of Eastwind Aviation in this time of mourning.

    Describing the incident as “an overwhelming tragedy that is shocking beyond comprehension,” PANDEF expressed sorrow over the loss of life and acknowledged the significant impact of the incident on the families of the deceased and the entire nation.

    The Forum also urged all relevant agencies to thoroughly investigate the cause of the crash and implement measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

    “At this deeply agonizing moment, PANDEF prays for the repose of the departed souls and for God Almighty to comfort the grieving families and all Nigerians affected by this tragedy,” the statement read.

    The Forum called for the prompt intervention of aviation authorities to ensure that the immediate and remote causes of the crash are uncovered and addressed without delay.

    The Pan Niger Delta Forum is a socio-political organization focused on the development and well-being of the Niger Delta region, advocating for peace, stability, and sustainable development.

    Deputy Speaker condoles NNPCL, families of victims

    Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu has commiserated with the Board of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) over the crash.

    Kalu, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, sympathised with the Group Chief Executive Officer, (GCEO) of NNPCL, Mele Kyari, and the families of the victims of the helicopter tragedy.

    The Deputy Speaker urged the relevant government agencies to offer needed assistance that will help to soothe the enduring pain.

    Saluting the bravery of those who lost their lives in service, Kalu also prayed to God for the repose of their souls.

    “Our deepest condolences go out to NNPCL and the families of the victims of the tragic helicopter crash. We mourn the loss of lives and express our heartfelt sympathy for the courageous individuals who dedicated their service to the nation. May their memories be honored and may God comfort their loved ones,” Kalu said.

  • NSIB probes derailed Abuja-bound train

    NSIB probes derailed Abuja-bound train

    • 685 passengers, crew on board

    The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has commenced investigation following the derailment of Abuja-Kaduna train on Sunday.

    The train, which derailed at Jere Station, departed Rigasa at 8:00 AM with 685 passengers and crew onboard.

    The passenger train KA2/loco 2702  was en route to Idu Station, Abuja from Rigasa Station, Kaduna.

    The Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection of the Bureau, Mrs. Bimbo Oladeji, in a statement in Abuja yesterday said the baggage van (BVA) and one passenger coach derailed.

    Read Also: Weakness of governance at local level responsible for development challenges in Nigeria – Abbas

    She noted that the derailed coaches were dragged approximately 86 feet from the switchpoint before coming to a stop.

    She said as part of the investigation, the Bureau would analyse data from the On-Train Monitoring Recorder (OTMR) and other critical sources of information.

    She added that the investigation to be carried out would examine the train’s speed, track conditions, mechanical components, and operational procedures.

     Giving details on the number of those on board, she said: “685 passengers and crew were onboard. Crew members onboard included two drivers (one at the front and one at the rear locomotive), two train guards, three Traveling Ticket Collectors (TTC), 20 police escorts (2 at each coach), and 4 bomb disposal unit members.”