The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has expressed its commitment to collaborating with the United States National Transportation Safety Board in the investigation of the tragic Airbus Helicopter EC130B4 crash that claimed the lives of Dr. Herbert Wigwe, Group CEO of Access Holdings, and five others.

The NSIB has pledged full cooperation to its American counterpart.

The Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at NSIB, Mrs. Bimbo Olawunmi, confirmed the bureau’s commitment.

The NTSB had dispatched its “Go Team” to investigate the crash that occurred on Friday, February 9, 2024, near Interstate 15 in Halloran Springs, California.

The ill-fated helicopter, operated by Orbic Air, LLC, crashed with no survivors, including two crew members and four passengers, among them Dr. Herbert Wigwe, his wife and son, and Mr. Abimbola Ogunbanjo, former Group Chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group Plc (NGX Group).

Following the crash, the Director General of NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh, established contact with the NTSB in line with international aviation regulations.

As a concerned state with citizens involved in the accident, Nigeria has the right to appoint an expert to participate actively in the investigation.

The ongoing collaboration includes communication between NSIB and NTSB representatives, ensuring access to relevant information.

NTSB investigators, led by Aaron Sauer, are conducting an in-depth examination of the crash site, collecting evidence, and initiating the documentation process.

Several investigation groups within NTSB are examining different aspects of the accident, such as airworthiness, maintenance structures, operations, meteorology, and air traffic control.

Airbus helicopters and Turbomeca engines will serve as technical advisors to the investigation, with the BEA, the French aviation accident investigation agency, acting as an accredited representative due to the French origin of the Airbus helicopter and Turbomeca Engine.

The NTSB’s accident investigation process typically involves three major milestones, including a preliminary investigation report, a public docket compilation, and the final aviation accident report.

The NSIB reaffirms its dedication to a thorough and conclusive investigation to enhance transport safety in Nigeria and the United States.

In a statement, NSIB expressed condolences to the affected families, stating, “The Airbus Helicopter EC130B4 crash has brought a colossal loss to our dear nation, Nigeria. Our hearts go out to the Wigwe and Ogunbanjo families and loved ones affected by this tragedy.”