Criticism has surrounded President Bola Tinubu’s alleged intentions to acquire new presidential jet aircraft. Following an investigation into the condition of the current aircraft in the Presidential Air Fleet, the House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence recommended that the Federal Government buy new planes for Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima. The committee, along with the Senate, explained that Nigeria should acquire two more aircraft to prevent any potential accidents caused by technical or operational issues with the PAF.
It was rumoured that the committee’s report prompted the decision to approve the motion, as there were concerns about defective aircraft in the PAF. This resulted in Tinubu having to use a chartered plane for a journey from The Netherlands to Saudi Arabia on a recent overseas trip. Similarly, Shettima had to cancel a trip to the United States last month because of a malfunctioning aircraft. Yet, the decision to acquire new planes showcases a lack of awareness towards the suffering that Nigerians face from crippling Inflation and the Devaluation of the country’s currency on a daily basis.
Current presidential jet is designed to last for 30 years.
Also, it is unreasonable to think that the government may be considering purchasing new aircraft. The current presidential jet was bought during the Olusegun Obasanjo administration and is built on the B737-800 platform by Boeing. It is designed to last for 30 years, even when used as a commercial airliner. The PAF, with its fleet of 10 aircraft, has consistently been a burden on taxpayers, surpassing the size of many commercial airlines. In the 2023 supplementary budget, the Federal Government allocated ₦12.7 billion to the PAF on top of the initial ₦13 billion.
This amount has increased to ₦20.5 billion in the 2024 budget. Between 2011 and 2020, a total of ₦73.3 billion was set aside for the PAF. The public has expressed anger over the excessive resources allocated. Top officials have at times treated PAF like a taxi service. For example, in 2020, Hanan, the daughter of former President Muhammadu Buhari, used a presidential jet for a personal photo shoot in Bauchi. Tinubu seems focused on promoting a Culture of extravagance.
Nig. leaders have gained a reputation for being insensitive to citizens.
Upon taking office in December, Argentina’s president, Javier Milei, made significant cost-cutting decisions. This included the sale of two presidential jets, cutting the number of official vehicles and drivers in half, and reducing his cabinet by 50%. These measures aim to address hyperinflation and save the country $3 billion per year. It is seen as very poor judgement and a sign of disrespect for the President to encourage people to bear hardships and make sacrifices in the present, with the promise of brighter days ahead, all while he and his staff enjoy a life of luxury.
The President’s extravagant mile-long convoys, filled with luxury SUVs, paint a picture of a leader who shows no qualms about flaunting opulence while the majority of citizens suffer from Poverty. Nigerian leaders have gained a reputation for being insensitive and dismissive towards the people they govern. The acquisition of new presidential jets, treated as casually as using an Uber by high-ranking officials, demonstrates a further commitment to this pattern of behaviour. Tinubu must lead by setting a positive example, following the national sentiment, and practicing what he preaches about sacrifice.
There is no requirement for FG to have a Presidential Air Fleet.
Currently, the price of a brand new BBJ MAX 7 is $101 million, equivalent to ₦150 billion. The budget for Agriculture in 2024 is ₦362.9 billion. It is crucial for the government to allocate funds towards food production, Education, healthcare, and social Infrastructure in order to positively impact the lives of the people. There is no requirement for the Federal Government to have a Presidential Air Fleet. The UK government opts to lease jets for its prime minister and cabinet ministers in order to reduce expenses. Nigeria has the option to follow suit.
