Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga clarified that, contrary to popular belief, President Bola Tinubu did not acquire a new official jet but rather a refurbished one.
He made this statement during a recent appearance on “Inside Sources with Laolu Akande,” aired on Channels Television.
Onanuga explained that many jets in the presidential fleet, including a 19-year-old Boeing B737-700 bought during ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo’s tenure, are in poor condition, leading to exorbitant maintenance costs.
To avoid these expenses, the President sought approval from the National Assembly for a refurbished jet that is still in good working order.
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He noted that the refurbished Airbus A330 would help reduce the financial burden of maintaining the aging aircraft.
Onanuga emphasized the importance of prioritizing the President’s safety, reminding Nigerians that the jet is state property and will remain in Nigeria, benefiting future leaders.
Despite the administration’s defense of this acquisition, many Nigerians and some of Tinubu’s political opponents have criticized the decision, arguing it shows a lack of empathy toward citizens struggling with severe food inflation and skyrocketing energy prices.
Concerns about the condition of the Presidential Air Fleet have been rising. Recently, a malfunctioning jet prevented Vice President Kashim Shettima from attending the 2024 US-Africa Business Summit.
Additionally, last December, the Nigerian Air Force listed a Falcon 900B aircraft for sale, inviting bids for its purchase.
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