Helicopter Crash: NNPC Spokesperson Cancels 50th Birthday Celebration

The Chief Corporate Communications Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd. (NNPCL), Olufemi Soneye, has canceled his 50th birthday celebration in light of the recent helicopter crash in the Niger Delta.

Naija News understands that the announcement was made by Soneye on Tuesday during a worship service in Lagos.

He turned 50 on October 29, 2024, but stated that the decision to cancel his planned November 2 celebration was in response to the tragic incident.

The accident occurred on October 24, 2024, when a Sikorsky SK76 helicopter with registration 5N BQG, operated by Eastwind Aviation, crashed into the Atlantic Ocean near Bonny Finima, off the coast of Calabar.

According to NNPCL and Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, the helicopter was carrying eight people—six passengers and two crew members—during a routine flight.

As of now, four bodies have been recovered by the search and rescue team, while the helicopter’s black box, Flight Data Recorder (FDR), and Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) remain unlocated due to challenging environmental conditions, according to the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB).

In a statement, Soneye said, “Dear Family and Friends, I regret to inform you that I have decided to cancel my 50th birthday celebration, which was scheduled for November 2nd, in light of the current situation in the country and the recent tragic helicopter crash involving some of my colleagues.

“However, the ‘5 Hours of Praise’ event led by Pastor Abbey Olusanya will proceed as planned.

“I sincerely apologize for any inconvenience, particularly to those who have traveled from abroad. My heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with the families affected by this tragic incident. May God bring comfort to all those involved.”