- Cost-Effective: The refurbished Airbus A330 will save Nigeria from outrageous maintenance costs.
- Safety Priority: Prioritizing the president’s safety, citing instances where mechanical issues with the old plane required chartering a different jet.
- Long-Term Benefit: The refurbished jet belongs to Nigeria, not President Tinubu, and will benefit his successors.
Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga has clarified that President Bola Tinubu acquired a refurbished jet, not a new one, amidst public debate. The refurbished Airbus A330 replaces outdated aircraft, including a 19-year-old Boeing B737-700 purchased under ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo.
The presidency noted that the refurbished jet is a national asset, acquired after President Tinubu sought approval from the National Assembly. The decision aims to address the excessive maintenance costs associated with the old jets, ensuring the president’s safety and reducing financial burdens.
This move prioritizes the president’s safety and reduces maintenance expenses, benefiting Nigeria in the long run.
