The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has expressed deep sadness over the tragic helicopter crash that killed eight oil workers, including two union leaders.
NUPENG President, Prince Williams Akporeha, and General Secretary, Afolabi Olawale, shared their condolences in a statement. They offered sympathy to the families of the victims, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), and Arion Energy Services Ltd., noting that the loss is a heavy blow to the oil and gas industry.
The crash happened on October 24, 2024, when an Eastwind Aviation helicopter, traveling from the Port Harcourt Military Base to the offshore FPSO NUIM Antan facility, fell into the Bonny River.
Among those who died were Comrade Boris Dorbi, NUPENG Branch Chairman, and Comrade Lawrence Alu, a respected member of the NUIM Antan Branch. NUPENG’s statement described their deaths as a “significant blow” to the union and industry.
The union praised the quick response from Rivers and Akwa Ibom State governments, the Federal Ministry of Aviation, and other rescue teams.
Moreover, NUPENG expressed unity with all those mourning this loss and sent prayers to the families and colleagues of the deceased.
NUPENG pledged to keep working with all necessary partners to protect the safety and well-being of its members and the larger community.
“May the souls of the departed rest in peace, and may their families find the strength to bear these irreparable losses,” the statement said.
