Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga has clarified that the Federal Government recently acquired a refurbished jet, not a new one, for the presidential fleet. Speaking on Channels Television, Onanuga emphasized that the plane, a Boeing B737-700, was purchased in consideration of safety and long-term costs, addressing concerns over the 19-year-old aircraft former President Obasanjo added to the fleet.
According to Onanuga, maintenance costs for the older aircraft have escalated, with frequent repairs proving unsustainable. He noted that President Tinubu opted for a cost-effective, refurbished aircraft rather than incurring high expenses on outdated planes, prioritizing national resources and the President’s safety.
“The President did not buy a new jet; what he has is a refurbished jet... but it is a much newer model than the one President Buhari used,” Onanuga explained, pointing out that Tinubu’s successor would also benefit from this update to the fleet.
He underscored that the refurbished plane belongs to the nation, urging Nigerians to consider the importance of the President’s security in their assessment of the acquisition.
