Business
Dana Air Insurers Pay $100,000 To Victims’ Families
The insurers of the ill-fated Dana Air, has commenced payment of USD 70,000 to families of the victims of the June 3 plane crash that claimed over 150 lives having earlier made advance payments of USD 30,000 to over 80 families.
The Civil aviation Act states that the sum of $100,000 be paid as compensation to families of victims of air disasters.
The Dana Air’s Head of Corporate Communications, Mr. Tony Usidamen, while confirming the payment to journalists, said following the receipt of letter of authentification from the probate registry, “Our insurers have begun balance payment of $70,000 to affected families.
According to him, only four other families have, so far, presented the requisite grant of probate or letter of administration, and payment will shortly be made to them.
He noted that in order to assess and verify full compensation due and payable, it was necessary for claimants to produce the required grants of probate or letters of administration which would then have to be authenticated by the Probate registry.
“This is a customary procedure to ensure that compensation is only paid to the right next of kin.
Dana Air, according to him, has no control over the speed with which the Probate registry deals with the verification process, although maximum pressure is being exerted to expedite this.
He explained further, that the case of minors, a letter of guardianship has to be produced by the parents or guardian in order to access full payment.
“This is not a precondition given by Dana Air or its insurers but a standard legal requirement to ensure that due compensation is paid only to those who have entitlement, he posited.
He, however, said the management of Dana Air appreciates how difficult this period is for all the families and are also aware of the challenges they are facing in getting the required legal documents for accessing the final payments.
Nkpemenyie Mcdominic
Reports say that the training is designed to equip youths with practical technical skills for employment in the oil and gas and construction sectors, with emphasis on employability, safety, competence and self reliance.
In attendance at the flag-off ceremony this week, at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) Conference Hall, Effurun, were stakeholders, dignitaries, and political representatives, among others.
Dafinone, represented by his Chief of Staff, Adelabu Bodjor, said the initiative reflects a deliberate political investment in human capital development across Delta Central.
He explained that the training focuses on rigging and scaffolding, noting that “both are essential technical competencies required in industrial operations, construction projects, and oil and gas installations”.
Bodjor added, “The programme is intended to reduce dependency among youths by providing job-ready skills capable of supporting long-term economic opportunities and self-sufficiency. The initiative aligns with Senator Dafinone’s broader development agenda, which prioritises practical skill acquisition as a pathway to sustainable empowerment.”
Also addressing the participants, the NCDMB, Felix Omatsola Ogbe, represented by Mr. Teddy Bai, commended Dafinone for sponsoring the programme, describing it as “a timely response to critical manpower gaps in the industry”.
Bai explained that rigging and scaffolding remain safety-sensitive skills required across fabrication yards, offshore platforms, and construction sites, stressing that the programme bridges the gap between certification and practical competence.
He also charged the training consultant, OROH Contractors Limited, to maintain strict standards of professionalism, safety, and discipline, while urging participants to remain committed, focused, and disciplined throughout the exercise.
The Senate Liaison Officer for Sapele Local Government Area, Chief Patrick Akamuvba, , described the programme as a major step in strengthening human capital development in Delta Central.
Akamuvba said scaffolding and rigging skills are in high demand across residential, commercial, and industrial construction projects, noting that the training offers real employment opportunities for beneficiaries
He urged participants to prioritise knowledge and certification over short-term material expectations, stressing that discipline and seriousness would determine their long-term success.
He also cautioned youths against social vices and distractions, advising them to remain focused to maximise the opportunities provided by the programme.
