President Bola Tinubu’s recent departure to France aboard a newly acquired presidential jet has ignited a firestorm of controversy and criticism, following weeks of speculations that the Federal Government has quietly purchased the aircraft. The jet’s purchase, which reportedly cost over $100 million, was intended to remain a closely guarded secret due to fears of public backlash, especially given Nigeria’s current economic difficulties. However, the plan was unexpectedly exposed following a French court’s order to seize three Nigerian aircraft over a contract dispute with a Chinese company.
The acquisition of the Airbus A330 was intended to replace the aging Boeing B737-700 (BBJ) in Nigeria’s presidential fleet. Sources within the government have revealed that the administration was acutely aware of the potential fallout from such a high-profile purchase during a time of significant economic hardship for the majority of Nigerians. Tekedia Mini-MBA edition 15 ( Sept 9 – Dec 7, 2024) has started registrations; register today for early bird discounts.
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However, the plan t.