Helicopter Crash: NNPC Spokesman, Soneye, Cancels 50th Birthday Celebration

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

The National Oil Company spokesman, made the announcement during a worship session in Lagos.

According to Soneye, his decision to cancel his birthday celebration stems from the helicopter incident that occurred last week.

Daily Bells recalls that on October 24, 2024, a Sikorsky SK76 helicopter, with registration number 5NBQG, operated by East Wind Aviation went down into the Atlantic Ocean after it departed from the Port Harcourt Military Base en route to the NUIM-ANTAN oil rig.

According to the NNPCL and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, eight people were on board, with six of them being passengers while two, were crew members.

A total of four bodies have been recovered by the search and rescue team, according to the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB).

Speaking, 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 still take place as planned.

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

The CCCO also called on family and friends to pray for the bereaved families.