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

In a statement signed by NUPENG President Prince Williams Akporeha and General Secretary Afolabi Olawale, the union conveyed condolences to the families of the victims, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), and Arion Energy Services Ltd. The union noted that the crash represents a severe loss to the oil and gas industry and its workforce.

The Eastwind Aviation helicopter, carrying the eight individuals, crashed into the Bonny River on October 24, 2024, while traveling from Port Harcourt Military Base to the offshore facility FPSO NUIM ANTAN.

Among the victims were Comrade Boris Dorbi, Branch Chairman of NUPENG, and Comrade Lawrence Alu, a respected member of the NUIM Antan Branch. “Their unfortunate and untimely deaths are a significant blow to the oil and gas industry and our collective workforce,” the statement read.

NUPENG commended the recovery efforts led by the governments of Rivers and Akwa Ibom States, the Federal Ministry of Aviation, and other involved agencies. “As we mourn our deceased comrades and colleagues, we stand united in our grief and offer our prayers and condolences to the bereaved families and all those impacted by this tragedy,” NUPENG stated.

The union reaffirmed its commitment to working with relevant stakeholders to ensure the safety and well-being of its members and the broader community. “May the souls of the departed rest in peace, and may their families find the strength to bear these irreparable losses,” the statement concluded.

Vanguard