Nigeria's recent acquisition of a 15-year-old Airbus A330-200 presidential jet has sparked controversy over its cost and previous ownership. Purchased for $100 million and retrofitted at an additional $50 million, the deal raises questions about government spending priorities amid ongoing socio-economic challenges.
Nigeria's recent acquisition of an Airbus A330-200 presidential aircraft has sparked significant discussion due to its age and previous ownership. Officially registered as 5N-FGA, this aircraft, which was manufactured in November 2009, has changed hands multiple times, making Nigeria the third nation to utilize it.
The aircraft was delivered to Nigeria on August 18, 2024, from Toulouse, France, where it was originally produced. Before its current ownership, the plane was owned by Midroc Aviation in Saudi Arabia for 12 years, operating under the registration number VP-CAC. In 2021, it was sold to AMAC Aerospace, a Swiss company, which retained the same configuration and engines.
Despite the Nigerian government's silence regarding the acquisition cost, sources indicate that the aircraft was purchased for approximately $100 million, with an additional $50 million spent on retrofitting it with advanced technology. For comparison, a brand-new A330-200 is priced around $238.5 million.
The deal has drawn scrutiny amid concerns about governmental transparency and the use of public funds. Critics argue that acquiring a second-hand aircraft for such a substantial investment raises questions about financial priorities, especially as Nigeria continues to grapple with various socio-economic challenges. As the government moves forward with its plans, the implications of this purchase will likely remain a topic of debate among citizens and analysts alike.
Source: Daily Independent
