The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has expressed profound sorrow following the tragic helicopter crash that resulted in the deaths 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 extended its condolences to the families of the victims, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), and Arion Energy Services Ltd. They emphasized that the crash signifies a substantial loss to both the oil and gas industry and its workforce.
The incident occurred on October 24, 2024, when an Eastwind Aviation helicopter, carrying eight individuals, crashed into the Bonny River while en route from the 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. NUPENG described their untimely deaths as a significant blow to the industry and the collective workforce.
The union commended the recovery efforts led by the governments of Rivers and Akwa Ibom States, the Federal Ministry of Aviation, and other agencies involved. In their statement, NUPENG expressed solidarity with the bereaved families, stating, “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.”
Furthermore, NUPENG reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with relevant stakeholders to ensure the safety and well-being of its members and the broader community. The statement concluded with a heartfelt wish for the souls of the departed to rest in peace and for their families to find the strength to endure these irreparable losses.