Nigeria Nigerian Navy Takes Delivery of Controversial Presidential Yacht Amid Budgetary Debate

Amidst the ongoing controversy surrounding the proposed N5 billion presidential yacht, as outlined in the 2023 supplementary budget presented to the National Assembly, the Nigerian Navy confirmed on Friday that they had taken delivery of the yacht.

Commodore Adedotun Ayo-Vaughan, Director of Information for the Nigerian Navy, revealed in an interview that the yacht had been in the country since June 2023.

The request for the replacement of the defunct presidential yacht was initiated during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, with an emphasis on the yacht's purpose for training.

However, it appears that the payment for the yacht may face delays due to opposition within the National Assembly. The federal lawmakers have declined to approve the payment for the yacht, even though it has already been delivered.

This situation raises questions about how the government plans to finance the purchase in the coming days and months.

Senate Chief Whip, Ali Ndume, clarified that the presidential yacht had been agreed upon, signed, and delivered before the public outcry, though payment had not been made.

The Senate expressed concerns about the budgeted amount for the yacht, which was based on a lower dollar rate, now being unfavorable due to the increased exchange rate.

Despite the controversy, the Navy stressed that the yacht was not a new budget item and had been requested for in the past. It was intended for the Presidential Fleet Review in 2023.

As the payment for the yacht is currently in dispute, it may affect the navy's ability to use it for operational activities until the matter is resolved.

The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, clarified that the presidential yacht was meant for operational naval use, not for personal use by President Bola Tinubu.

The situation has resulted in concerns about potential delays in payment and use of the yacht, and the matter may require further deliberation within the National Assembly.

The House of Representatives noted that any procurement made without legislative authorization is unconstitutional and null and void. The House canceled the allocation for the yacht and redirected the funds to a proposed student loan scheme.

The Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Akin Rotimi, emphasized the need for legislative approval for government expenditures, as per the constitution.

As the controversy unfolds, it remains to be seen how the issue will be resolved, and whether the Nigerian Navy will eventually be able to utilize the presidential yacht for its intended purposes.