BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Director General of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), Captain Alex Badeh Jr., and Hon. Abiodun Akinlade, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Aviation and Aerospace Technology, have assured anxious Nigerians that no stone would be left unturned while investigating the immediate and remote causes of the Sikorsky helicopter SK76 marked 5N BQG that crashed into the Atlantic Ocean on October 24.
This was disclosed bubMrs Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji
Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance at NSIB.
According to her, the duo gave assurance when they visited the accident site to oversee the progress of recovery and investigations thus far conducted.
She added that both officials reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to a transparent and thorough inquiry into the accident aimed at improving transport safety in Nigeria.
The helicopter, operated by Eastwind Aviation, ditched off the coast of Bonny Finima on October 24, 2024, while transporting eight individuals.
Since the accident, the NSIB, with support from local and international partners, has coordinated a search and recovery mission to locate the wreckage and examine the circumstances of this tragic event.
During the visit, Captain Badeh Jr. and Hon. Abiodun Akinlade received comprehensive updates from the multidisciplinary search and recovery team.
The officials were briefed on the ongoing progress, including thorough investigative procedures examining environmental factors, safety protocols, and technical considerations.
Captain Badeh emphasized NSIB’s dedication to a transparent and impartial investigation, underscoring the Bureau’s role in delivering clarity: “Our mission is to uncover the truth behind this tragic incident. Our team is committed to the highest standards, working diligently to provide clarity for affected families and to advance safety measures for all Nigerians.
Transparency and accountability are our guiding principles as we seek to bring closure to those impacted and offer concrete recommendations to enhance aviation safety.”
Abiodun Akinlade reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fully supporting the recovery efforts and NSIB’s investigative mission.
He expressed heartfelt condolences to the families, emphasising the government’s responsibility to prioritize the welfare and safety of all citizens who rely on dependable transportation.
Akinlade highlighted the importance of translating these findings into safety reforms that will benefit the entire nation.
“This tragedy affects us all, and our thoughts are with the families who lost loved ones. The safety of our citizens and the integrity of our transport system are priorities for the National Assembly. We will ensure that insights and lessons from this investigation contribute to Nigeria’s aviation safety policies and broader transport safety initiatives”, he said.
