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Bayo Onanuga, a presidential spokesman, has clarified that the Federal Government purchased a refurbished jet for President Bola Tinubu, not a brand-new aircraft as rumored on social media.
During a recent episode of Inside Sources on Channels Television, Onanuga emphasized that the jet is owned by Nigeria and was acquired as a more cost-effective option. He explained that certain jets within the presidential fleet, initially purchased during former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s tenure, are now in poor condition with high maintenance costs.
According to Onanuga, instead of incurring ongoing high maintenance expenses for aging aircraft, President Tinubu received approval from the National Assembly for a refurbished jet in reliable condition. This Airbus A330 is expected to reduce the nation’s maintenance expenses associated with the outdated planes in the fleet.
“The President didn’t acquire a new jet,” Onanuga clarified, adding that the refurbished aircraft had been previously used but is a newer model than the one flown by former President Buhari, which was acquired two decades ago during Obasanjo’s administration. He recalled an instance where mechanical issues forced President Tinubu to charter a plane from Saudi Arabia to the Netherlands, highlighting the need for a reliable aircraft.
Onanuga stressed the importance of the President’s safety and reminded Nigerians that the jet belongs to the nation and will also serve future presidents. National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu endorsed the decision, recognizing the substantial costs associated with maintaining the old aircraft.
He further appealed to the public, saying, “Prioritizing the President’s safety is essential. I doubt anyone would want to see the President compromised mid-air. Ensuring his security today is part of the responsibility to the office.”
Despite the Presidency’s defense of the refurbished Airbus A330 purchase, the decision has drawn criticism from various Nigerians and some candidates from the 2023 presidential race. Critics argue that the move suggests a lack of empathy for citizens facing steep food and energy price hikes.