“It’s Nigeria’s Property,” Onanuga Clarifies That Tinubu Acquired Refurbished Jet, Not New

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Bayo Onanuga, presidential spokesman, has clarified that President Bola Tinubu did not purchase a new official jet but instead acquired a refurbished one.

He emphasized that the aircraft belongs to the Nigerian people, stating, “It is our property.”

In an appearance on Channels Television’s Inside Sources with Laolu Akande, Onanuga explained that many jets in the presidential fleet, including a 19-year-old Boeing B737-700 acquired during ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration, are in poor condition, leading to high maintenance costs.

Rather than incurring excessive expenses for upkeep, the President sought National Assembly approval for a refurbished Airbus A330, which is still in good working order.

Onanuga highlighted that this refurbished jet would reduce Nigeria’s maintenance costs compared to the aging aircraft currently in use.

He urged citizens to prioritize the President’s safety, noting that the new plane is intended for state use, not for Tinubu personally.

He assured that the jet would remain in Nigeria’s possession for the benefit of future leaders.

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“The president did not buy a new jet; he has acquired a refurbished jet that has been previously used but is a newer model than the one used by President Buhari,” Onanuga stated.

He recalled an incident during President Buhari’s administration when a malfunction forced the President to use a chartered jet during a trip to Saudi Arabia.

Onanuga also mentioned discussions with National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu about the faulty aircraft, emphasizing that its age led to exorbitant maintenance costs.

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He urged the public to focus on ensuring the President’s safety, asserting that no one wishes harm upon him.

Despite the administration’s defense of the refurbished Airbus A330 acquisition, it has faced criticism from various Nigerians and political opponents.

Many argue that the decision appears insensitive given the ongoing challenges faced by numerous citizens, including soaring food prices and energy costs.

Concerns over the state of the Presidential Air Fleet have been mounting; in May, a faulty jet prevented Vice President Kashim Shettima from attending the 2024 US-Africa Business Summit.

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Additionally, a Falcon 900B aircraft was put up for sale by the Nigerian Air Force last December, inviting bids for its purchase.