Refurbished Presidential Jet Saves Nigeria High Maintenance Costs, Not a New Purchase, FG Clarifies

|By Adejumo Adekunle –

The Federal Government has clarified that it did not purchase a new official jet for President Bola Tinubu but instead acquired a refurbished plane for the presidential fleet. Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga addressed the matter during an appearance on Channels Television’s Inside Sources on Sunday.

Onanuga explained that many jets acquired under former President Olusegun Obasanjo are now costly to maintain due to their deteriorating condition. To avoid excessive spending on repairs, President Tinubu sought approval from the National Assembly to acquire a reliable, refurbished Airbus A330, ensuring substantial savings on maintenance costs.

This decision addresses public concerns about fleet expenses, with the government emphasizing that the plane remains the country’s property.

Nigerians should prioritize the President’s safety and view the newly acquired presidential jet as national property, emphasized Presidential Spokesperson Onanuga. He added that the aircraft would serve future leaders as well.

According to Onanuga, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu approved the purchase of the refurbished jet to reduce the soaring maintenance expenses associated with the previous, outdated aircraft.