The Digest:
Amid Nigeria's rising debt and economic pressures, the federal government spent N26.38bn on the Presidential Air Fleet during President Bola Tinubu's first 18 months. This figure highlights the high cost of maintaining executive air mobility, fueling debate on austerity.
Key Points:
- N26.38bn was spent on the Presidential Air Fleet between July 2023 and December 2024.
- The expenses covered the operational and logistical upkeep of the fleet.
- Former President Buhari spent N81.80bn from 2016-2022 on the fleet.
- Tinubu's fleet disbursements peaked in 2024 with significant releases in March, May, and August.
- Experts argue that high costs stem from a diverse fleet, geopolitical factors, and a weak naira.
- Calls for a reduction in the fleet size have emerged from industry experts.
- Aviation expert Group Capt. John Ojukutu suggests reducing the fleet to just four aircraft.
Summary:
The high costs of maintaining Nigeria's presidential fleet have drawn scrutiny, as over N26bn was spent under Tinubu’s administration, raising questions about financial efficiency amidst calls for cuts. Reducing the fleet size could ease financial pressure.
