Speaking on Wednesday, Elumelu said he was “shattered” by
the tragedy, describing it as a reminder of the irreplaceable value of people
who drive the company’s mission daily.

“No words can capture the magnitude of this loss — not for
their families who loved them, not for the friends who valued them, and not for
those of us who worked beside them,” he said.

Elumelu noted that he learnt of the incident while on his
way to New York for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), but decided to
cut short his trip and return to Lagos “as a mark of respect to our lost
colleagues”.

Elumelu urged colleagues and staff to show solidarity by
reaching out to those injured and receiving care, adding that the company would
provide sustained support to the bereaved families.

“In the coming days, we will convene colleagues in a
memorial to honour the memories of the departed, as we provide support to their
families,” he said.

He also expressed gratitude to emergency responders, first
aid workers, and members of the public who displayed “courage and compassion”
during the crisis.

“May this never happen again in our Group. May the souls of
the departed rest in perfect peace,” he said.