Bayo Onanuga, spokesperson for President Bola Tinubu, recently addressed widespread speculation that the Nigerian government had purchased a new official jet exclusively for the president. Onanuga clarified that, contrary to claims circulating on social media, the administration had not acquired any new aircraft for Tinubu. He explained that the aircraft used for presidential duties has been part of Nigeria’s Presidential Air Fleet (PAF) for over two decades, dating back to former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s tenure.
Concerns regarding the presidential fleet have been mounting, as several older jets have required frequent repairs, leading to increased maintenance costs. A recent House of Representatives committee report on national security and intelligence recommended that Nigeria upgrade the fleet to ensure safe and efficient travel for top government officials. The recommendations were driven by recent incidents, including mechanical issues that forced Tinubu to take a commercial flight from Saudi Arabia to London during a recent trip.
Despite Onanuga’s clarification, some critics, including former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, have voiced concerns over government expenditure, calling the decision to potentially replace older jets “insensitive” amid Nigeria’s severe economic challenges. With rising inflation, currency devaluation, and poverty, Obi argued that government funds would be better allocated to pressing social issues such as healthcare, education, and security. The call for transparency and prioritization in government spending has resonated widely with citizens, adding pressure on the Tinubu administration to be more frugal and responsive to public needs.
